The earliest incised symbols are thought to date from the 5th century. Over hundreds of years, Pictish stonemasons refined their techniques, absorbing influences from elsewhere in the British Isles and beyond. Masterpieces such as the St Andrews Sarcophagus, the Dupplin Cross and Sueno’s Stone were created from the late 8th century onwards. An artistic progression over time may be assumed, however, dating of sculptures on art-historical grounds cannot produce precise dates.

Ogham inscription; and incised symbols on the stone at Brandsbutt, Aberdeenshire.