Slate carving

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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: 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
  Slate / carving
  
• 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:
• Related Records: