Multidisciplinary analyses of Gotlandic picture stones: a case study of fragments from Martebo and Stenkyrka

Strehlau H, Hänsel P, Kitzler Åhfeldt L, Källström M, Fergusson M, Oehrl S (2026)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2026

Journal

World Archaeology Routledge

DOI: 10.1080/00438243.2026.2678241

Abstract

The Gotlandic picture stones are an unparalleled monumental art in Scandinavia whose rich imagery offers a glimpse into pre-Christian belief systems. Their fragmented condition and reuse in secondary contexts, however, has challenged our understanding of their original use. Against this background, this article matches the two Migration Period picture stones GP 268 Martebo kyrka I and GP 428 Stenkyrka kyrka 46 which were previously considered separate monuments. Because the fragments lack matching fracture edges and display apparent inconsistencies in their decoration, we conducted a multidisciplinary investigation using photogrammetry, groove analysis, runology, and isotope analysis. The results demonstrate that the stones share the same width, possess complementing decorative elements, and originate from the same geological rock layer on Gotland. Groove analysis further indicates that the majority of the decoration expresses the same carving characteristics. The runic inscription was likely added to GP 268 Martebo kyrka I during the Migration Period as part of the original decoration. Taken together, these findings support the affiliation of GP 268 Martebo kyrka I and GP 428 Stenkyrka kyrka 46, identifying them as a single monument and a key monument of phase A Gotlandic picture stones (400–550 CE).

Authors with CRIS profile

Patrick Hänsel Professur für Paläontologie (Schwerpunkt Faziesanalyse)

Involved external institutions

Bournemouth University GB United Kingdom (GB) Swedish National Heritage Board / Riksantikvarieämbetet SE Sweden (SE) University of Stavanger / Universitetet i Stavanger NO Norway (NO)

How to cite

APA:

Strehlau, H., Hänsel, P., Kitzler Åhfeldt, L., Källström, M., Fergusson, M., & Oehrl, S. (2026). Multidisciplinary analyses of Gotlandic picture stones: a case study of fragments from Martebo and Stenkyrka. World Archaeology. https://doi.org/10.1080/00438243.2026.2678241

MLA:

Strehlau, Hannah, et al. "Multidisciplinary analyses of Gotlandic picture stones: a case study of fragments from Martebo and Stenkyrka." World Archaeology (2026).

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