Jarrow, Anglo-Saxon architectural fragment

Reconstructed portion of an architectural feature, or furniture, in red sandstone, possibly millstone grit. The surviving designs are quite unworn. It is an octagonal shaft, 133 cm high; base diameter 34 cm, with angle-roll mouldings ending in splayed hollow-cut bases. Two faces are missing; the other six are decorated with a variety of closed circuit patterns, split leaves, plant trails. Dated to the late 7th century-early 8th century, and found in 1965, in fragments, during archaeological excavation of a Saxon building. Probably from a stone reading desk rather than a central column in the building.