My random collection of stone marks and bags of dust have relevance. A ‘crayon’ was found and, because the archaeologists know my interest, I got the chance to draw it and – most importantly to hold it. It fits my hand perfectly as an ergonomic drawing implement. What is more, there is an indent for the thumb of my right hand and a different indent beside that for my left thumb. There is clearly a working end where the stone is softer and makes a darker mark than the non-business end, which is harder and scratchier. To hold this ‘worked stone’ and know that a Neolithic hand was ‘drawing’ with it 5000 years ago is beyond exciting. The connection between present and past is highly potent.
Chris, who found the ‘crayon’ outside the entrance to Structure 8.
Later in the day, I was able to go inside Structure 8 to make a painting.
Previously, because my paintings have been done outside the trenches, they have all been views of the landscape with any figures quite small in the distance. Today, being in the trench, I could attempt to paint the archaeologists up close – not easy as they keep moving but nevertheless enjoyable.
For more news of the dig visit the daily dig diary on the Ness of Brodgar web site
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