Archaeologia Islandica - 01.01.2011, Page 74

SIGRID CECILIE JUEL HANSEN
it is not uncommon that they are found
tapering towards one or both ends due to
wear. The dark grey schist type is often
longer and narrower than the light grey
schist stones that are generally both
thicker and wider in relation to their
length. This pattem of variations within
the shape of whetstone of the two schist
types is similar to both Kaupang (Resi
2008, 31-32) and Hedeby (Resi 1990,
20-26).
In general the whetstones fall into
three main groups (figs. 2-4):
Bar-shaped medium-sized whetstones,
used for knifes, scythes, and other small
edged or pointed tools. This is by far the
most common group and there are great
variations within it (fig. 2a & b).
Smaller pendant whetstones for
personal use with or without means for
suspension (fig. 3a & b).
Large stationary whetstones for larger
implements or swords (fig. 4a & b).
Much variation exists within these
Figures 2a & b. Examples of bar-shaped
medium-sized whetstones, one (a) whole
whetstone from the burial at Ljótsstaðir
(Þjmsl959-54), and another (b) from
Hvítárholt (þjms!964-283-425) broken
across the centre.
Figures 3a & b. Examples of small pendant
whetstones, one (a) with a hole, from
Galtalækur (Þjmsl929-10483) and the other
(b) with groves for a strap attachment from
Hrísbrú (þjms2008-21-48 +237).
general groups. This variation can be the
result of different uses of the stone, but is
also influenced by more random factors
like the quality of the raw material, the
production of the stone, and reuse after
breakage, thereby limiting the usefulness
of shape as an analytical criterion. The
only datable change that occurs in shapes
is a decrease of the pendant type
whetstones for larger implements or swords
from the burial at Eyrateigur (Þjmsl995;
359 and 360), one (a) of Eidsborg schist
whetstone (nr. 359 top), one (b) of the dark
grey schist type (nr. 360 bottom).
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