ABSTRACT
This paper analyses two early Anglo-Saxon sculptures from Peterborough Cathedral and discusses them in relation to other sculptures in the region, and their inspiration from Late Antique art. The first monument, the so called ‘Hedda Stone’, closely resembles the Late Antique sarcophagi of Gaul and Italy, but it also has parallels with Anglo-Saxon ornament on stone and metalwork dating to the late 8th/ early 9th century. The sequence of apostle figures forms a litany of prayer. The second sculpture is a panel carved with figures, the identity of which is a matter of debate, unlike similar contemporary examples. A compelling case has been made for this panel to be Roman in origin and for the figures to be one female and one male, probably of Roman deities (see Henig above). It is suggested here that an alternative view should still be considered, namely that this is a copy of an eastern Roman model by Anglo-Saxon carvers who considered the dress to be like monastic costume and the figures to represent some unknown saints with strong eastern connections. Finally, it is briefly considered how, in centres linked to Peterborough, other innovative and exotic carvings of strange beasts and figures with strong links to eastern art, of late 8th century, also survive. This floruit appears then to reflect high level patronage with a specific stylistic focus on Peterborough.
