A Donegal cross made in 1704 has been featured on BBC’s recent episode of Antique Roadshow after it was found in the UK.
The episode, which aired on Sunday last in Lytham Hall, Lancashire, revealed how the ‘dark and mysterious cross’ was found during a clear-out at a local church.
Details of the items journey from Donegal to Lancashire remain a mystery, but antique expert Adam Schoon, who was valuing the item, explained how the cross was carved in County Donegal 315 years ago.
“I think this is made of yew wood,” Schoon explained. “It comes from County Donegal in Ireland, probably carved from an unknown craftsman.
“These were carved by pilgrims and they made the predominately in the 18th and 19th century.”
Found inscribed on the cross was the year was 1704, a period Schoon said carried importance to the crosses history.
He continued: “That year is also quite important because it was the start of the penal laws against the catholic faith which forbade them from all sort of things including going on pilgrimages.”
By the end of the show, the guest was left speechless when it was valued between £500 – £800.
The owner said: “Good grief, I thought somebody would pass me £20 for it.”
