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The decorative hexagonal base features six arches with pillars at each corner, gargoyles and medallions. There is a deep circular parapet divided into 12 carved panels with consoles separating panels. Ten of the twelve oval-shaped bas-relief medallions illustrate Stewart monarchs; namely James I to James V, Mary Queen of Scots, James VI, Charles I and II and James VII with the remaining two showing the Royal Arms and the burgh’s arms. The column with a Corinthian capital which rises from the centre of the cross is wreathed with thistles, and resting on the capital is a unicorn in white marble, bearing on its breast a shield with the Scottish Arms. The shaft and unicorn are replacements from the mid–1990s; the originals are on display in the Tolbooth Museum.
Title
The Mercat Cross
Medium
sandstone
Measurements
H 500 x W (?) x D 600 cm
Accession number
AB11_DM_S029
Work type
Cross
Owner
Aberdeen City Council
Custodian
Aberdeen City Council
Work status
extant
Listing status
A (Scotland)
Unveiling date
1686
Listing date
12/01/67
Access
at all times