ABSTRACT
In the 7th century AD a remarkable development occurred in Pictland: suddenly-just before AD 685 when the Pictish king Bridel defeated the Northumbrians at the battle of Nechtansmere-gracefully designed incised carvings appeared on some 200 standing stones (Fig. 8.1). Their similar designs indicate a common source and purpose, as does their location: almost without exception at springs, riversides, and on seashores. Yet they occurred all over Pictland-from Shetland to Fife-in a short space of time. There are no art historical precedents for these Pictish designs and there is no obvious reason why they were placed on standing stones. Nor are there any historical records that refer to their purpose.
