Cargill Mains

NO13NE 152 16 37

Metal detecting by Mr J McGarry at Mains of Cargill produced a copper-alloy enamelled mount/stud - possibly from a horse harness - which can be dated to the 8th/9th century. The mount measures 22mm square; Th 2.5mm; Wt 7.58g. The upper surface has a frame defining the decorated field, from each side of which a linked arm of a swastika projects to meet in the centre of the field. Each arm has a double-bend which, through their shape, define a T-shaped field between the arms. The fields, arms and frame are filled with yellow enamel. The flat back is plain and bears the base of the stem for a round attachment lug. The closest parallel for the Cargill mount is a very similar example from St Andrews (PSAS 119, 228-9). The swastika is a widespread motif in Insular art, whether it be in sculpture, metalwork or manuscripts.

There is no firm context for the Cargill mount but the location is just below the confluence of the Rivers Tay and Isla, in the important territory of Strathmore. The mount was found in the vicinity of the point where the valley route to and from Scone and St Andrews splits to go to Dunkeld and into Strathmore. Claimed as Treasure Trove (TT 90/03) and allocated to Perth Museum.

M Hall and J Shiels 2004