Description
Illustration from the second edition of Camden’s Britannia showing the Cerne Giant (sans phallus). The diagram is based on the survey that appeared in the Royal Magazine in 1763 and the drawing that appeared in the Gentleman’s Magazine the following year where the Giant’s ‘special purpose’ is shown clearly.
The Cerne Abbas Giant is a well-known chalk figure located in the English countryside. Although it is often believed to be an ancient creation, its written history only dates back to the late 17th century. Medieval sources refer to the hill where the giant is situated as Trendle Hill, in reference to a nearby Iron Age earthwork known as the Trendle. Interestingly, earlier sources for the area do not mention the giant, despite noting other landmarks such as the Trendle.
The earliest written reference to the Cerne Abbas Giant is found in a 1694 entry in the Churchwardens’ Accounts from St Mary’s Church in Cerne Abbas. The entry mentions three shillings spent on repairing the giant. In subsequent years, the giant gained attention from various individuals. In 1734, the Bishop of Bristol noted and inquired about the giant during a visit to Cerne Abbas, and in 1738, the antiquarian Francis Wise mentioned it in a letter. These accounts were later discussed at meetings of the Society of Antiquaries of London in 1764.
During the 18th century, descriptions of the giant began to appear in contemporary magazines, reflecting a growing interest in antiquities. The earliest known survey of the giant was published in the Royal Magazine in September 1763, followed by derivative versions in other publications. In the early 1770s, the antiquarian John Hutchins reviewed previous accounts in his book, providing a detailed description and drawing of the giant as it was then. The figure was said to have three letters and the numerals “748” between its feet, although these features have since been lost.
The origins of the Cerne Abbas Giant remain elusive. Some 18th-century antiquarians speculated that it was a deity of the ancient Britons, while others suggested it was a caricature of the final abbot of Cerne Abbey, Thomas Corton. Another theory proposed that the numerals “748” referred to a historical figure or a repair date. Local traditions and names associated with the giant varied, including “Hele,” “Hegle,” and “Helis.” Some researchers, influenced by the figure’s resemblance to Hercules, hypothesized that “Helis” was a corrupted form of “Hercules.” The giant’s features, including its nakedness and a knotted club, align with the attributes of the classical hero.
Over time, the Cerne Abbas Giant underwent changes and restoration efforts. The phallus, which was once depicted, gradually disappeared from depictions during the 19th century, likely due to changing views on modesty. In 1868, the owner of the giant, Lord Rivers, arranged for its restoration to its presumed original condition.
Despite the limited written history and uncertain origins, the Cerne Abbas Giant continues to capture the imagination and interest of both locals and visitors. Its iconic status as a chalk figure and the various theories surrounding its existence contribute to its enduring appeal.
Classic 100% cotton tee with taped neck and shoulders, and a double seam at the sleeves and bottom hem. Eldon Threads logo printed discreetly on the reverse as an outer label just below the neck. Open-end yarn. Tubular fabric. Fabric weight: 5.0–5.3 oz/yd² (170-180 g/m²).
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