The Picture Stone from Broa in Halla

The Picture Stone from Hunninge at Klinte
The Picture Stone from Väskinde Cemetary The Picture Stone from Levide Parish Church
The Picture Stone from Havor in Hablingbo The Picture Stone from Bopparve in Alva
The Picture Stone from Martebo Parish Church The Picture Stone from Ire in Hellvi
The Picture Stone from Austers at Hangvar A Further Picture Stone from Ire in Hellvi
The Picture Stone from Sanda The Picture Stone from Broa in Halla
The Picture Stone from Smiss at När The Picture Stone from Smiss in Stenkyrka
The Picture Stones from Larsarve at Eskelhem The Picture Stone from Laxare in Boge
Picture stones from Smiss at Garda The Picture Stones from Sjonhem Parish Church
The Picture Stone from Ardre
 

This picture stone has also been found in conjunction with a burial site. It has been dated to 700–800. Two very familiar motifs can be seen on the stone – the scene showing the welcome to Valhall, where one of the Valkyries offers the new arrival a drinking horn, and a depiction of a ship.

The pictures contain a couple of details of great interest. The rider’s dress is particularly interesting. His upper body is protected from the elements by a cloak, its necessity indicated by the rider’s posture. He is also wearing knee-length baggy riding breeches. This garment, originating from the East, reached the North along with equestrianism a few centuries B.C. The rider is also armed with a sword.

 

The ship depicted on the stone does not rank among the larger vessels, but is well equipped with shields along the gunwale and a resolute crew. The artist, using simple means, has captured the steadfastness of this Viking crew in their facial expressions.