Madam, – Anyone who wishes to see the effect of neglect and pollution on Ireland’s sculptural heritage (Medieval Sculpture, Modern Problems, Weekend Review, March 27th) should visit Fahan in Co Donegal. Sadly, the once marvellous seventh-century cross slab of the former monastery of St Mura is effectively no more.
As recently as 1965, Françoise Henry was able to write of its bold and vigorous ornamentation and in 1970 Peter Harbison described its two faces, both bearing crosses composed of interlaced bands. Uniquely, the slab bore an inscription in Greek.
Nothing is now visible. This once-important slab has flaked away badly and its surface is scarred by lichen. Clearly, it should have been brought indoors (to the neighbouring church) or given a glass casing (Scottish style) long ago. Obviously, something will have to be done immediately if other vulnerable crosses and cross slabs are not to share the same fate. – Yours, etc,