Message #248141

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 Patterns had symbolic meaning

The painted paddle blades bear witness to the decorations and colours which have undoubtedly been a regular part of everyday life in the Stone Age, but of which we only get the occasional glimpse.
The decoration on the paddle blade found at Flynderhage bears a striking resemblance to the semi-degraded paddle blade found in Horsens Fjord. (Drawing: Flemming Bau)

Out of the many ornamented objects made from bones and antlers found in Horsens Fjord and elsewhere over the years, antler axes provide us with the clearest insight into this world of patterns.

At first glance the lines may appear random, but the engravings were not only meant as a visual embellishment; there’s no doubt that they had a symbolic meaning that made sense at that particular time and place.