Sigurd Cross Slab (Manx Cross 122)

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One face is embellished with an intricate pattern of broad and narrow bands resembling a figure-eight shape, featuring numerous pellets. The other face depicts a pivotal moment from the Sigurd legend, showcasing the Norse god Loki propelling a stone at an otter as it rests on a rock devouring a salmon. The otter, identified as a shape-shifting monster called Otr, meets its demise. As a result of Loki's mischief, the other gods take responsibility and compensate Otr's brother Fafnir, who becomes increasingly consumed by greed and transforms into a dragon. Sigurd ultimately slays Fafnir and claims his treasure, which he loads onto his horse, Grani. The incomplete figure of Grani can be seen halfway up the stone, carrying the hoard of treasure on its back. This artwork is characteristic of Early Medieval craftsmanship. The cross was discovered in Ramsey, Maughold, Garff, Isle of Man. It is currently housed at the iMuseum (Manx National Heritage). A scan of the cross was performed in situ, resulting in some surfaces being unable to be captured or photographed.