Overview

• It is the first gravoir found in Scotland and one of only three known in the UK, according to National Museums Scotland.
• Carved from red deer antler and depicting a hooded figure holding a book, the piece contrasts with the usual ivory used for such objects.
• The tool reflects the castle’s engagement with medieval French fashions, having been used to part hair precisely and create elaborate styles.
• Excavations also uncovered brooches, dress pins, animal bones and crucibles, providing evidence that items from buckles to swords were made on site.
• The wider assemblage is now curated in about 80 boxes at NMS’s Granton centre, after digs commissioned by the Conchra Charitable Trust to support further research and public interpretation.