The Sparlösa Monument and its Three Carvers

A Study of Division of Labour by Surface Structure Analysis

Abstract

The Sparlösa stone (Vg 119) in Västergötland, Sweden, has been analysed with surface structure analysis using a laser scanner and statistical data analysis. The main issue is whether the iconography is contemporary with the older inscription, usually dated to c. 800 AD. In addition, there is a younger additional inscription of the 11th century AD, serving as an inherent method study. Another issue is to study the possible division of labour in the cutting, as opinions have been divided on this matter. Results indicate that two carvers in cooperation produced the original inscription and that the iconography can be connected to one of the older carvers. This means that if the iconography can be interpreted as heraldic signs, these must have been in use in Scandinavia as early as about 800 AD.