Early history Celtic cross
early forms: cross slab, st. madoes, perthshire, scotland early forms: pillar stone, gallarus oratory, county kerry, ireland ringed crosses similar older continental forms appeared in ireland , scotland in incised stone slab artwork , artifacts ardagh chalice. however, shape achieved greatest popularity use in monumental stone high crosses, distinctive , widespread form of insular art. these monuments, first appeared in 9th century, (though not always) take form of ringed cross on stepped or pyramidal base. form has obvious structural advantages, reducing length of unsupported side arms. there number of theories origin in ireland , britain. scholars consider ring holdover earlier wooden crosses, may have required struts support crossarm. others have seen deriving indigenous bronze age art featuring wheel or disc around head, or coptic crosses based on ankh. however, michael w. herren, shirley ann brown, , others believe originates in earlier ringed crosses in christian art. crosses rin...