Date: Early 10th century

Place of Production: England, possibly Winchester.

Description: When St Cuthbert’s coffin was opened in the nineteenth century, several well-preserved textiles dating from the early tenth century were found inside, including a stole and maniple. Both were embroidered with ‘Ælflæd ordered this to be made’ on the reverse; this is most likely the second wife of Edward the Elder. The textiles were possibly presented to St Cuthbert’s shrine when Ælflæd’s step-son Æthelstan visited in 934 and donated a number of garments. The embroidery is worked on silk, using gold and coloured thread, showing images of saints and prophets.

Held at: Durham Cathedral Treasury

Accession Number: DURCL 5.4.60