Knife

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This stone knife was found at the Neolithic settlement site of Skara Brae on Orkney. The decoration on the knife suggests that it was special in some way. It was used sometime between 3100 and 2500 BC.

The knife is decorated with two reversed, hatched triangles on one side. The cutting edge has been sharpened.

Symbols played a part in early beliefs. Designs on stones from tombs, monuments and houses must have had special significance. Such designs are also found on pottery and other items, which were perhaps used in rituals.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-040-476-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.HA 612
• Date: Between 3100 and 2500 BC
  
• Material: Stone, ground; oval; with two reversed, hatched triangles scratched on one side
  
• Dimensions: 3.00" max W
  
• What:
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Orkney, Skaill, Skara Brae
  
• Event:
• Description: Decorated stone knife from Skara Brae
  
• References:
  • Clarke, D.V., Cowie, T.G., & Foxon, Andrew (eds). Symbols of power at the time of Stonehenge. Edinburgh: National Museums of Antiquities of Scotland, 1985, p 245. 
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