Reaping tool

This agricultural tool made of slate was found at Jarlhof on Shetland. It was used for reaping (cutting and gathering crops). The tool was used sometime between 200 BC and 400 AD.

The tool has a grip and an irregular cutting edge.

In places where metal was scarce or expensive, local materials were utilised for tools. In this case, much care has been taken to create a sharp cutting edge with a smooth grip made from slate, a material which is difficult to work but possesses sharp edges.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-100-037-887-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland X.GA 429
Date:	Between 200 BC and 400 AD.
Material:	Stone, slaty; with grip and irregular cutting edge
Dimensions:	12.25" L
What:	Slate / implement
Subject:
Who:
Where:	Scotland, Shetland, Sumburgh, Jarlshof (Broch)
Event:
Description:	Slate saw-edged implement used to detach ears of grain from stalks, from Jarlshof
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