Slate carving

This graffiti etched on slate was found at the Norse settlement at Jarlshof in Shetland, in levels dating to the Viking period. It is one of several known from Jarlshof and Scandinavia depicting Norse ships.

The sketch shows a ship with a high prow and stern, a mast, rigging, a broad steering oar at the stern, and possibly 20 oars. There is a lattice pattern on the back.

The inhabitants of Jarlshof made use of the abundant local supplies of stone for building, everyday objects and drawings. The sketch shows many of the features found on excavated Viking-age ships, which were capable of long distance travel.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-100-042-680-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland X.HSA 790
Date:	Between 800 and 1100
Material:	Stone; drawing of ship, high prow and stern, mast, rigging, broad steering oar; lattice pattern on back
Dimensions:	7.00" x 2.70" x 0.40"
What:	Slate / carving
Subject:
Who:
Where:	Scotland, Shetland, Sumburgh, Jarlshof
Event:
Description:	Carving of a Viking ship on a slate, from Jarlshof
References:	Graham-Campbell, J. Viking artefacts. A select catalogue. London: Trustees of the British Museum, 1980, no. 280.
Translations:
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