The coffins

Abstract

There were traces of coffins in at least 23 graves although only 5 were sufficiently well preserved for further analysis. The form of the coffins was unusual for the medieval period. While the sideboards ran longitudinally, as is commonly found, they were constructed with partially open bases formed by separate and spaced cross-boards (slats). Three similar examples were found at the Carmelite Friary in Perth. The latter, however, were not intended to be portable whereas those from St Giles most definitely were.