Prehistory

Viking-period stick pins

Period:

Early Medieval Dark Ages

Description:

Ring pins are an Irish and Norse phenomenon and their occurrence at Whithorn is another example of the town's contacts with Viking settlements in Ireland and the Isle of Man.  Ring pins were used to secure cloaks and tunics.

 

A group of ring pins, so called because of the distinctive ring at the top or head of the pin.  Most of the heads are decorated and one (see detail) has fine interlace design.

Place of Discovery:

Excavated at Whithorn, Wigtownshire

Materials/Media:

bronze

Dimensions:

average length 90mm

Source:

The Whithorn Trust

Accession Number:

WIWMS Whit BZ15.3-9

Digital Number:

WTAC008a; WTAC008b

Copyright:

Dumfries & Galloway Council