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from Broch of Burrian, Orkney

Bone
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This ox bone was found at the Broch of Burrian on Orkney. It may have been used as a playing piece. The object dates from between 500 and 800.

The bone is a phalange (toe bone) which has been decorated on both sides. On this side it has been carved with a symbol composed of a circular disc and a rectangle with a square indentation.

Bone of this type were used in the Low Countries until recent times as playing pieces. Isolated finds of decorated phalanges are also known from Scottish sites and may have been used in a similar manner.

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