The Swedish History Museum holds a large collection of bones of various kinds, including human remains. We living humans are both appalled by and attracted to visible evidence of death. The scanned human remains presented on Sketchfab from our museum are important museum artefacts, chosen because they represent a specific historical event. They also represent one of humanity’s worst acts: violence towards other humans. It is therefore our wish that you, as a viewer, use the 3D-models with respect. 

The image shows a human cranium with injuries on its left and front side. A small, square hole above the left eye and on the left cheek bone was probably caused by a pole weapon or a battle axe. The gash across the mouth could have been caused by a sword or a thin bladed axe.The cranium is one of several thousand artifacts found in a mass grave outside Visby on the island Gotland. All remains and objects found on the site stem from a battle between Gotlandic peasants and Danish mercenaries on 27 July 1361.

Cranium with injuries - 260727

![](https://bit.ly/3rRsqxS)
![](https://bit.ly/3jjIUts)

In May 2012, five sections of the hull of an armed Elizabethan merchantman were moved to Stoney Cove Dive Centre, some 400 years after it sank in the Thames Estuary. The site consists of a section of bow and 15m of the port side, as well as an anchor.

The ship is now part of a unique underwater museum display where it also serves to train the next generation of nautical archaeologists. 

Originally discovered in 2003 by the Port of London Authority, excavation was undertaken by Wessex Archaeology. The hull remains and associated artefacts, including iron bars, lead and tin ingots, pottery and leather were recovered together with 4 guns, one bearing the insignia 'TG' and the moulded emblem of a grasshopper, the mark of Sir Thomas Gresham (1519 - 1579). He was a financier and adviser to Queen Elizabeth.

Twelve tree-ring samples from the hull suggest that the timbers were felled in England after 1574. 

Photos: Martin Davies

The Gresham Ship - Stoney Cove, Feb 2013

PBR baked material version of the classic Chinese Dragon model sourced from Morgan McGuire, Computer Graphics Archive, July 2017 (https://casual-effects.com/data).

I've fixed some geometry issues and did a clean-up sculpt to remove scanning artefacts, then quad remeshed the model to be lower poly and baked the normal map from the sourced model. I created this to test shaders in Unity mainly using the normal map but have also textured it to look like Jade.

Also attached is the Unity HDRP textures and the baked 8K OpenGL Normal Mesh Map from Substance Painter.

Stanford Dragon PBR

Iron padlock from roman villa of S. Cucufate, Alentejo, Portugal. Similar specimens exist in other areas from the second century BC to the fourth century AD. This exemplar, however, may correspond to a much later model, and may date from the post-Roman period. This specimen presents 8 cm in height  and 5,8 cm in long. Currently it is exposed in the permanent exhibition of the museum of S. Cucufate (Vila de Frades, Vidigueira). Catalog No. CUC. 84 XV A 7 (2). Processed and modeled in Reality Capture from 489 photos. 

PONTE, S. da, (1987): “Artefactos romanos e post-romanos de S. Cucufate”, Conimbriga, XXVI, Coimbra.

Cadeado Roman lock Cucufate, Portugal

A sacrificial altar dating to the 3rd–4th centuries AD was discovered during excavations of the necropolis associated with the Belinskoe hillfort. In close proximity to the altar, a burial chamber with a short dromos was recorded, along with remnants of a ritual commemoration feast (trishna) and associated 4th‑century AD artefacts.

Altar. After excavations are finished

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-13817](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1259441)

**Material:** Iron, Copper

**Dimensions:** 

**Dating:** 

The artefact is composed of an iron disc that has been covered with a gold-plated copper plate, which features a concentric decorative scheme. The central area is characterised by the presence of a circular protrusion. Four sets of motifs can be discerned emanating from the object's centre and extending to its periphery. The sequence of elements from the central point towards the periphery is as follows: firstly, a band of waves, radiating flame-like rays, and subsequently, a bar with floral decoration. A band of waves is once again evident at the periphery.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Phalera

A ceramic head made for an exhibition at Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth, entitled 'In touch In Ruin'.

'Memory Artefact' - Harry Payne

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-19018.152.7](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/237553)

**Material:** Bone

**Dimensions:** 26,3 × 2,6 cm

**Dating:** 568 -820 CE

The artefact is a well-preserved limb of a composite reflex bow, featuring a recess for the bowstring. The term 'composite bow' is used to denote a bow that has been constructed from multiple parts and layers of organic origin. The limbs and grip are composed of one or more pieces of wood, which form a core.  The grip is constituted of varying numbers of horn or antler plates which were adhered to the core. The term "reflex" is employed to denote the bow whose limbs, in the unstrung state, are flexed outwards. In the strung state, the limbs are oriented vertically, and in the drawn state, they are directed towards the archer. 

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Bow limb

An incomplete copper-alloy padlock of medieval date (c. AD 1100-1400).

To find out more visit the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/1260424

ESS-D91ACC Medieval Padlock

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-23092.415.1](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1518075)

**Material:** Ceramic

**Dimensions:** 24x8,8 cm

**Dating:** 3500 - 2700 BCE

The bowl is composed of stone-tempered reddish-brown clay. It is equipped with a saddle-shaped, narrow handle. The vessel's exterior is characterised by the presence of partial decorations, manifesting as incised lines and notches. The most intriguing aspect of this vessel is its structural design, which comprises two distinct compartments intended for the accommodation of disparate materials. The artefact was subjected to significant restoration due to its poor physical condition.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Bowl with a divider inside

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-8334](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1047576)

**Material:** Ceramic

**Dimensions:** 15,68 x 15 cm

**Dating:** 100 - 301 BCE

A pot with a rounded body and a tall, slightly conical. The rim has been flared. The vessel was shaped on a potter's wheel and subsequently fired in a reducing atmosphere. This process is the reason for the artefact's characteristic light brown-grey colour. The surface has undergone a process of meticulous polishing.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-15190](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1285347)

**Material:** Ceramic

**Dimensions:** 26 x 30,5 cm

**Dating:** 800 - 451 BCE

Fragment of a medium-fired firedog (moon idol) made of medium-coarse to coarse, brown to dark brown clay with a high proportion of small pebbles. The entire surface features sculpted decorations and incised ridges. 
The function of these ceramic artefacts is a matter of debate. Research shows that they are frequently found in Hallstatt-period settlements and burial grounds. Since the mid-19th century, two main theories have existed within the field of research. It may be a typologically and functionally defined object, such as a fire dog for roasting. However, it could also be an object from a ritual context.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Firedog fragment

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-4564](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1033790)

**Material:** Bronze

**Dimensions:** 10 x 2 cm, 6,8 mm

**Dating:** 450-251 BCE

The function of this bronze fitting remains unknown. This object could be described as a 'piece of jewellery'. It is richly decorated and crescent-shaped. It was crafted using the repoussé technique. The two circles and the teardrop-shaped element in the middle could be interpreted as an anthropomorphic face, similar to early figurative Latène art. The artefact is composed of two thin bronze sheets that have been welded together. It was presumably attached using rivets made of leather or fabric.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Bronze fitting

Stone artifact with a convex surface, worked in a crescent shape. The exterior surface bears features of a zoomorphic face, including round eyes with pronounced supraorbital ridges, a flat nose, and a closed mouth curving downward. Each end of the piece has two perforations, one upper and one lower, intended for attachment. This artifact may represent a knee guard or thigh protector associated with the Mesoamerican ballgame.
 IDAEH Cultural Property No. 1.2.179.0171
www.fundacionrutamaya.org

Special thanks to the staff of La Ruta Maya Foundation for their hard work on this project.

3D model made using Artec Leo

Artefact

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-19875.244](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1006754)

**Material:** Bronze

**Dimensions:** 8,62 x 3,8 cm, 8,1 mm

**Dating:** 15 - 375 CE

The artefact is a bronze pin brooch in its complete form, featuring a tall, trapezoidal pin holder. The bow and the pin are connected by a rivet, around which the pin can move. Both are extended beyond the rivet eye by two pliers-like jaws. When the pin is closed, these jaws press against each other and apply tension to the brooch. This is followed by a short, straight shank, which ends in a bent-up segment.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Pliers Brooch

An incomplete cast copper-alloy strap-fitting of early medieval date (c.1000-1100).

To find out more visit the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/1259557

ESS-5A6609 Early Medieval Harness Fitting

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-19873.307](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1517983)

**Material:** Ceramic

**Dimensions:** 4,38 x 2,97 cm, 10 mm

**Dating:** 1450 - 1510 CE

The artefact is a half-relief ceramic model of a castle, crafted from fine brick-red-brown fired clay. The reverse is smooth with no signs of breakage. It can thus be classified as a printed relief, a printed sculpture pressed into a mould. Despite its small size, the model's front exhibits a sophisticated configuration: the castle stands on a high rock, has a hipped roof and chimney, and two towers of different sizes on either side. In front of it lies a fortification wall, and in the foreground is a zwinger with a low gatehouse or flanking tower on the left.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Model of a castle

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-19868.1837.1](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1247299)

**Material:** Ceramic

**Dimensions:** 5,00x7,45cm

**Dating:** 4500-4301 BCE

The ceramic rim piece shows only minor signs of weathering. The rim is semi-oval in shape and slopes inwards around the circumference. The surface is evenly smoothed both inside and outside. The clay is characterised by a fine, slightly rough and hard texture. The colour of the artefact is a light orange-brown, with traces of red paint visible on both the interior and exterior surfaces.The outer edge of the object features an appliqué in the shape of a flat, triangular goat’s head. This is positioned at a slight angle and has slit-like eyes and forward-facing ears.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Pottery piece with a zoomorphic applique

Large adult canine (Canis familiaris) cranium, with all adult teeth present (right canine is loose and removable), skeletally mature (fused cranial bones and adult teeth fully erupted). 

To find out more visit the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/1258953

ESS-F403EB Post Medieval Animal Remains

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-23104.76.3](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1519155)

**Material:** Bronze

**Dimensions:** 6,6 cm, 6,7 x 13,7 mm

**Dating:** 450 - 260 BCE

A bronze belt loop. The rectangular artefact is decorated on the frontal surface with circular eyes and pointed oval protrusions.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Belt Loop

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-19868.1837.2](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1247300)

**Material:** Ceramic

**Dimensions:** 5,79 x 4,73 cm

**Dating:** 4500-4301 BCE

The ceramic rim piece shows only minor signs of weathering. The rim is semi-oval in shape and slopes inwards around the circumference. The surface is evenly smoothed both inside and outside. The clay is characterised by a fine, slightly rough and hard texture. The colour of the artefact is a light orange-brown, with traces of red paint visible on both the interior and exterior surfaces.The outer edge of the object features an appliqué in the shape of a flat, triangular goat's head. This is positioned at a slight angle and has slit-like eyes and forward-facing ears.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

**Collection:** Prehistory and Historical Archeology Dept.

**Inv.-No.:** [UF-22958.68](https://www.online.landessammlungen-noe.at/objects/1117132)

**Material:**  Gold pleated silver

**Dimensions:** 76mm

**Dating:** 	1200-1350 CE

Brooch with star-shaped frame with eight points. The points of the star are shaped like lilies and arranged above a bar, with partially unfinished drill holes visible in the points. The frame also features a beaded decoration. The artefact is completely gold-plated. It has a spike that tapers towards the tip. This has a flat trapezoidal cross-section. On the inside of the frame there is a recess and a hole for the spike axis. Brooches are a significant aspect of high and late medieval fashion. The larger and more stable brooches as such piece are usually attached to the shoulder or chest of the coat.

This object was digitized through the ‘Kulturerbe digital’ program of the Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service and Sport.

Octofoil brooch with fleur-de-lis

An incomplete copper-alloy brooch (La Tène I, Adams type 1A) of Iron Age date (450BC -350BC).

To find out more visit the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/1259670

ESS-5DFF70 Iron Age Brooch

A fragment of a copper-alloy axehead of Late Bronze Age date (c.1000-800 BC).

To find out more visit the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/1260524

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