This rune stone carved and raised by runemaster Visäte between 1060 and 1070 in Torsätra in Uppland, Sweden, is one of many examples of runic monuments created as tributes to deceased loved ones.¹ The stone itself is 1.6 meters tall and tapers up to a point. It is carved with a cross surrounded by runes in the shape of a slender, stylized creature with a head profile and curled appendages on the neck and nose.² This is typical of the circular rune style Urnes, which is recognizable by its interwoven animal patterns.³

The writing is Younger Futhark, also called Scandinavian Runes, which is a reduced form of Elder Futhark, decreasing from 24 to 16 characters. This rune form appeared in the late 8th century and was used up until the Christianization of Scandinavia, after which its use declined.

The inscription reads: “Unna had this stone raised to his son Östen, who died in christening robes, God help his soul”,² indicating clearly that Östen was a Christian, and that Unna likely was as well.

Alternatively, Unna may not have fully converted to Christianity but was still supportive of Östen’s religious affiliation, which would fit the surprising degree of tolerance between two seemingly conflicting belief systems. During the transition from a Pagan to Christian population, the older rites were often performed in addition to newer practices such as baptism.⁴ This rune stone is an example of Scandinavian Runes mixed with Christian symbolism after the conversion or partial conversion of this particular family, which characterizes the blending and assimilation of Christianity into Scandinavian culture.