Monument with Runes
The monument here was found in Gotland, an island of the coast of Sweden and it dates back to the Viking Age. Constructed from stone, it depicts a variety of stylized figures, most of whom appear to be human. Prominently featured on the stone is a man girded with a sword, another holding an axe, and another with a staff. The horse Sleipnir, owned by the god Odin, also seems to be depicted. A ribbon of runes runs along the rim of the stone, presumably detailing its purpose. The overall intent of monument is obscured by the large chunks missing from it. Many key details, which might contain relevant iconography or telling runes are lacking, which prevents a more complete understanding of the piece.
Norse literature and the archaeological record indicate the installation of runestones as a common practice. In the Sage of the People of Eyri, “Thorolf designated Thor’s landing place at the point of the headland as the site for the settlement of lawsuits.”[1] Such a designation would be marked with a monument, like the one found at Gotland. The Yngvar Runestones, found at Lake Malar in Sweden, were most often built by family members remembering the lives and accomplishments of loved ones.[2] The monument featured here could easily have served both functions and regardless of purpose, would have drawn the attention of any passers-by as an object of significance. What runes can be seen read:
The sons of Líknhvatr ... the good landmark made in memory of Eilíkn, a good wife, mother ... and Geirhvatr and Líknvé. God ... be gracious to her and those making the landmark ... ... who men ... in Gardhir/Garde, he was with Vivi(?) ...
The Yngvar Runestones appear to be the most similar in purpose with the Gotland runestone. Although sparse, the text clearly supports an interpretation of the monument as a commemorative landmark for a diseased mother figure.[2] Her biography and social status were sufficient to merit an expensive runestone, indicating the significance of familial ties within Norse society.
