Carved stone ball

This carved stone ball was found in the River Earn near the Bridge of Dalreoch in Perthshire. It dates from between 3200 and 2500 BC. Many functions have been suggested for these objects. Whatever their function, they were prestigious possessions, symbols of power.

The granite ball has been carved with six knobs. Carved stone balls have been found with as many as 160 knobs, but six is the most common number.

Carved stone balls are distinctly Scottish objects, with over 425 known. Most are single finds, which makes them difficult to date or to determine their function. They are remarkably similar in size and show many similarities in design.

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