Further reading

The Picts and the Scots by Lloyd Laing and Jennifer Laing (Sutton, 2001) paperback £8.99
Who were the Picts and the Scots? For a long time the Picts were known almost entirely from their mysterious symbol stones, which generations of scholars have tried to interpret and date. This account presents the latest archaeological discoveries and discusses the evidence for the relationship between these two peoples, tracing their development from raids on Roman Britain to the formation of rival 'Dark Age' kingdoms that produced a unique artistic inheritance.

Picts, Gaels and Scots by Sally M Foster (B T Batsford, 2004) paperback £14.99
A fully updated and expanded edition of a classic text on early Scottish history. From the 5th to the 10th century, Scotland was home to a variety of diverse peoples and cultures, all competing for land and supremacy. At the heart of the mystery of how Scotland became a single unified country lies the extraordinary influence of the Picts and their neighbours, the Gaels, originally immigrants from Ireland. Sally Foster uses the latest archaeological discoveries and interpretations, as well as developments in historical, art-historical and place-name studies to explain how the Picts and Gaels became Scots and forged a nation.

The Art of the Picts: Sculpture and metalwork in early medieval Scotland by George Henderson and Isabel Henderson (Thames and Hudson, 2004) hardback £42
A sustained art-historical analysis of the work of the Picts. The only real traces of their society are stone cross slabs and some silverwork, all engraved with symbols.

The Picts and the Scots at War by Nick Aitchison (Sutton, 2003) paperback £20
Nick Aitchison illuminates all aspects of the mysterious world of the Picts in this book, including the nature of Pictish kingship and the aristocracy, warfare and everyday life. The shadowy world of Pictish religion and mythology, pagan and Christian, is also investigated. Illustrated with vivid scenes of Pictish sites and works of art, including their internationally famous sculptures.

A Wee Guide to the Picts by Duncan Jones (Wee Guides, 1998) paperback £3.95
The history of the Picts and a discussion of the symbols on their carved stones. Gazetteer features over 120 sites that can be visited.

Perceptions of the Picts: From Eumenius to John Buchan by Anna Ritchie (Groam House Museum Trust, Rosemarkie, 1994) can be obtained from Groam House Museum, High Street, Rosemarkie, IV10 8UF, price £4.50, including postage (UK only).

Text only