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From Broch of Gurness, Orkney

Postcard of Knife.
000-100-103-299-C
© National Museums Scotland

Knife

This iron knife with a bone handle was found at the Broch of Gurness in Orkney. It was used sometime between 400 and 800 AD.

The handle has an ogham inscription 'IN...IT...TEMOMN MATS', the meaning of which is unclear. The handle is in good condition, although the blade is corroded.

Ogham was a form of writing used by native peoples in Britain and Ireland. Some people carved their names on their property, but most people were illiterate. Writing was often seen as a kind of magic spell.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-100-103-299-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.1997.290
Date: 400 - 800 AD
Between 400 and 800
Material: Ogham-inscribed. Inscription: [Ogham inscription]
Dimensions:
What: Knife handle
Subject:
Who:
Where: Scotland, Orkney, Evie and Rendall, Broch of Gurness
Event:
Description: Ogham-inscribed knife handle, from Broch of Gurness, Orkney, 400 - 800 AD
References:
Translations:
Related Records:
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