Picts at Pitmachie

One has two Pictish symbols. A double- disc, which is a bit unusual in that the left circle is notched, which sits over a serpent and z-rod symbol.

On one surface is a script which is unique. Whilst many have tried to determine what the script is, none of the theories has yet gained universal acceptance. Kelly Kilpatrick's articles provide a comprehensive and detailed, recent analysis of the script.

sources

trove.scot (online)

Historic Environment Scotland (online)

The Newton Stones and Writing in Pictland (parts I and II) by Kelly Kilpatrick

published in The Proceedings of The Society of Antiquities of Scotland 150 (2021) (online)

photos

my own

Version 1.0 dated 7.8.26

These stones are outside of Banffshire, at Newton House, in an area rich in Pictish carved stones.

The stones are believed to be re-used standing stones.

Whilst it is known that the stones were moved to their current location in the 18th century, historically there has been some confusion about where they were originally found.

Kelly Kilpatrick in her article "The Newton Stones and Writing in Pictland", convincingly argues that they were originally west of Pitmachie overlooking the River Shevock, several miles from their current position.

The second stone is unique. Along one edge is ogham script. Apart from the personal name, IDDARRNN, the remainder of the script is unclear, with different interpretations.

The Newton Stones