Complex symbolism exists in a distinctive style of art which developed in parts of northern and and eastern Scotland during the later part of the 1st millennium AD. This was part of a complex belief system connected to the Picts or peoples inhabiting these lands. “The Picts” or (painted peoples) were so described by the Roman occupiers.
Some of the symbols represent valued personal items such as a mirror and a comb case. Others are more puzzling which may be magical signs or even stylised depictions of weapons : shields, broken spears and arrows. In the example is a possible Mirror Case at the top , V-Rod and Crescent design and Mirror at the bottom.
Piping Scot Tours 