Record

Ochre grinding block

< 1 of 1 > Back

From Skara Brae, Orkney

Postcard of Ochre grinding block.
000-100-040-138-C
© National Museums Scotland

Ochre grinding block

This small sandstone block with a circular hollow was found at the site of the Neolithic village of Skara Brae in Orkney. It has traces of ochre, a reddish-brown earth used for early paints or dyes. It had been used to grind the ochre into a powder.

Sandstone block with ochre traces from Skara Brae

This is one of several grinding vessels found at Skara Brae. Others include an oyster shell. The pigment could have been used to adorn people, artefacts or both.


Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.

Online ID: 000-100-040-138-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.HA 28
Date: Between 3500 and 2000 BC
Material: Sandstone, red; containing reddish pigment
Dimensions: 2.75" x 3.50"
What: Block
Subject:
Who:
Where: Scotland, Orkney, Skaill, Skara Brae
Event:
Description:
References:
Translations:
Related Records:
< 1 of 1 > Back
 
Powered by Scran