(Brøgger 1916 ; Myhre 1992 ), its most important diagnostic element is the ribbon plait
- the ‘ring-chain’ (Figure 24. 3 b) – a symmetrical interlaced pattern, each intersection of
which is bound by interlacing circles overlaid by lozenges or by hollow-sided squares or
triangles. Often constructed as a double ribbon, it is often given added glitter by means
of transverse nicks. The second major motif of the style is a single gripping-beast, its
body normally forming a curved ribbon between two hips (Figure 24. 3 a). The head
consists of a mask (basically a triangle with prominent eyes and a snout), usually with
one or two lappets or pigtails. The ribbon-like neck passes to a hip in one corner of the
Figure 24. 2 Picture stone from Ardre, Gotland. (Bildsten; Ardre k:a; Go; Inv. nr. 11118 : VIII.
Copyright © Bengt A Lundberg/Museum of National Antiquities, Stockholm, Sweden.)–– David M. Wilson––