The unearthing of the Galloway Hoard in 2014 represented a pivotal moment in archaeological history, unveiling a wealth of Viking-era treasures that continue to amaze both scholars and enthusiasts. Among these exceptional items is a carved rock crystal jar, which has recently undergone cleaning and conservation by specialists at National Museums Scotland (NMS). Initially thought to be of Carolingian origin, this extraordinary artifact has now been recognized as a Roman crystal jar dating back to the late 8th or early 9th century, adorned with intricate layers of gold thread. The ongoing conservation efforts are providing new insights into the jar’s origins, illuminating its historical journey and its significance within the richest Viking hoard ever discovered in Britain or Ireland.
The Discovery of the Galloway Hoard
The Galloway Hoard was found in September 2014 by a metal detectorist in a field close to Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. This collection of prestigious Viking artifacts stands as the most opulent of its kind ever unearthed in Britain or Ireland. In 2017, the hoard was acquired by National Museums Scotland for an ex gratia payment of £1.98 million ($2,550,000), paving the way for a detailed and careful analysis of the artifacts it contained.
A Treasure Trove of Rare Artifacts
Throughout the years, the cleaning and conservation of the Galloway Hoard have unveiled an astonishing selection of rare items. This includes a silver pectoral cross decorated with niello enamel, a unique gold bird-shaped pin, and a silver-gilt pot once thought to originate from the Carolingian Empire. This pot, one of only three known to exist from Britain, was discovered intact with its original lid and wrapped in woven textiles. To ensure the delicate textiles were preserved while examining the contents, conservators employed CT scanning technology, which uncovered a significant collection of items inside, including a 9th-century Anglo-Saxon brooch, an Irish penannular brooch, a gold reliquary pendant, and a hinged silver strap.
A Persian Connection
The conservation project has yielded remarkable results, especially concerning the silver-gilt pot. A 3D model generated from X-ray imaging revealed that its iconography—depicting leopards, tigers, and Zoroastrian symbols—was not of Carolingian design but rather Sasanian, confirming that the vessel originated from Persia instead of continental Europe. Radiocarbon dating of textile samples that encased the vessel indicated it was crafted between 680 and 780 A.D., making it 100-200 years old at the time it was interred in the hoard.
The Roman Crystal Jar
Among the most fascinating items found within the silver-gilt pot is the carved rock crystal jar. Initially discovered within a silk-lined leather pouch, 3D X-ray imaging later uncovered a Latin inscription on the jar’s base stating: “Bishop Hyguald had me made.” This inscription, coupled with the jar’s design, suggests it originated as the capital of a Corinthian column made of rock crystal during the late Roman Empire. Over the subsequent 500 years, this crystal column capital was transformed into a jar and enveloped in gold thread, resulting in the remarkable artifact we see today.
A Glimpse into the Past
The importance of the rock crystal jar goes beyond its exquisite craftsmanship. It is possible that the jar still holds trace elements of the liquid it once contained, and modern scientific methods may reveal the exact chemicals used. Dr. Martin Goldberg, NMS’s principal curator for early medieval and Viking collections, speculates that the jar may have once held a rare and exotic substance—perhaps an Eastern perfume or anointing oil used in royal or ecclesiastical rituals. Such a discovery would provide intriguing insights into the cultural and religious practices of that era.
Conclusion
The Galloway Hoard continues to mesmerize audiences worldwide with its stunning variety of artifacts, each offering a distinctive glimpse into history. The carved rock crystal jar, now confirmed as a Roman piece wrapped in gold thread, exemplifies the intricate artistry and rich heritage of the Viking age. As the conservation efforts at National Museums Scotland advance, we can anticipate even more astonishing revelations that will enhance our understanding of this extraordinary hoard and the individuals who created and valued these remarkable treasures.
