Smoother

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This bone rectangular object was probably used as a smoother when making textiles. It is one of a number of objects buried in the grave of a wealthy Norse woman who died in childbirth sometime between 850 and 900.

The rectangular object is nearly complete, with most of the original edges surviving. Similar examples are known from native sites in Scotland, where they have been interpreted as rubbing bones for smoothing down the weft as it is woven on hand looms.

The preparation of wool and flax, spinning, weaving, and sewing were the domain of Viking women. This woman was buried with a range of tools used in the production of textiles.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-000-099-746-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 737
• Date: Between 850 and 900
  
• Material: Whalebone; broken at both ends
  Plaque
  
• Dimensions: 5.10" L x 2.80" W
  
• What: Plaque
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Orkney, Rousay, Westness
  
• Event:
• Description: Whalebone plaque broken at both ends, from Westness, Orkney
  
• References:
  • Graham-Campbell, James and Batey, Colleen E. Vikings in Scotland. An Archaeological Survey. Edinburgh: University Press, 1998, p 136. 
  • MacGregor, Arthur. The Broch of Burrian, North Ronaldsay, Orkney. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 105 (1972-4), pp 63-118, esp. p 86. 
  • Ritchie, Anna. Viking Scotland London: B.T. Batsford Ltd/Historic Scotland, 1993, p 50.
• Translations:
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