Piece of orpiment

Orpiment is bright yellow mineral imported from the Mediterranean and used to produce yellow for manuscripts. This example was found at the site of the royal hillfort of Dunadd in Argyllshire. It was used in the 7th century.

Orpiment, perhaps used for illuminated manuscripts, from Dunadd, Argyll, 600 - 700 AD

Latin was brought to Scotland by the Christian church. Latin inscriptions are carved on some stones and objects. Its greatest use, however, was in manuscripts, though few survive today or can be said with certainty to originate from Scotland.

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