Record
Key
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from Pierowall, Westray, Orkney
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This iron key was found in a Norse grave at Pierowall on Westray in Orkney. No details were recorded about the burial, but other grave goods included two knives, a bead, a sickle, a bronze drinking horn mount and a number of rivets.
The key is very corroded, but the hooked end can be seen in the rust.
Nose builders fitted lock and key mechanisms to doors and chests. A number of keys survive and occasionally the locks.
Record details
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- Online ID: 000-000-099-727-C
- Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
- Project:
Kiloran Bay Viking Burial (multimedia essay)
Project description View all records in project - Ref: National Museums Scotland X.IL 186
- Date: Between 850 and 950
- Material: Iron; pierced at top
- Dimensions:
- What:
- Subject:
- Who:
- Where: Scotland, Orkney, Westray, Links of Pierowall
- Event:
- Description: Iron key pierced at the top, from Pierowall, Westray
- References:
- Graham-Campbell, James and Batey, Colleen E. Vikings in Scotland. An Archaeological Survey. Edinburgh: University Press, 1998, p 134.
- Translations:
- Related Records:
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