Glass Horse 2017
Hogback Stone
This particular carving is thought to be done by "an apprentice" or more amateurish Carver as there is a lot less definition, but I particilarly like the depiction of 4 paws to each bear - a very goodl observation!
In 1867, large scale alterations to St Thomas' Church saw the discovery of 11 Hogbacks in the foundations of the chancel (6 of which are kept at Durham Cathederal)
It is generally believed that Hogbacks are grave covers - the shape being likened to "The House of the Dead" (such roofing exists today on 13th Century Stave Churches in Scandinavia which also have a "beast" at the ends of the ridge) and also to upturned boats. The Brompton Hogbacks are unusual in that, instead of having the figure of a "Hog" these all have muzzled Bears at either end - the meaning is unknown - perhaps they were intended to guard the dead or maybe they are just symbolic of the warrior spirit
Hogback Stone
This particular carving is thought to be done by "an apprentice" or more amateurish Carver as there is a lot less definition, but I particilarly like the depiction of 4 paws to each bear - a very goodl observation!
In 1867, large scale alterations to St Thomas' Church saw the discovery of 11 Hogbacks in the foundations of the chancel (6 of which are kept at Durham Cathederal)
It is generally believed that Hogbacks are grave covers - the shape being likened to "The House of the Dead" (such roofing exists today on 13th Century Stave Churches in Scandinavia which also have a "beast" at the ends of the ridge) and also to upturned boats. The Brompton Hogbacks are unusual in that, instead of having the figure of a "Hog" these all have muzzled Bears at either end - the meaning is unknown - perhaps they were intended to guard the dead or maybe they are just symbolic of the warrior spirit