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prehistoric knowledge

Traces

Knowledge of the natural environment was a prerequisite for survival.

People have been here for thousands of years. They have left silent traces behind. Every hearth, every arrowhead and knife is a story, a message.

The Silvermuseet's prehistoric basic exhibition Traces is built around the theme of interaction. The theme has three variations: people's interaction with their natural surroundings, with other people and with the world of gods and spirits, the spiritual environment. The expression of the beautiful objects, archaeological finds from the area, is further enhanced by the artistic design of the exhibition.

The fishing population adapted their way of life to the changing seasons. Knowledge of the natural environment was a prerequisite for survival.

Connecting with other people was also a condition of life. The need to belong was as strong then as it is now. Contacts with other fishing communities stretched far and wide, and the people of Arjeplog were part of a flow of goods, ideas and values.

Just as we ask questions about the origin and meaning of life today, people in prehistoric times wondered about the mysteries of life and death. Sacrificial sites and graves, in the sign of the shaman drum, reflect a quest for contact with gods and spirit beings.

Pictures from the exhibition

View of the exhibition Traces. Gray wood, stone and stands. In one stand we see a drum.
The exhibition's design language invites to own experiences and associations. ©Jerry MagnuM Porsbjer
Part of the Silvermuseet's exhibition Traces: Stone objects, such as arrowheads, on display.
The elegance of the arrowheads testifies to the stonemason's insight into the hidden properties of the stone. ©Jerry MagnuM Porsbjer
Lot from the Silvermuseet's exhibition Traces: Stand with soapstone objects.
The soapstone pot's decorated handles speak of a timeless sense of beauty. ©Jerry MagnuM Porsbjer
Part of the Silvermuseet's exhibition Traces: Many old wooden skis of different lengths leaning against a corner. On the floor around the skis are lots of reindeer horns.
Contacts with other fishing communities stretched far and wide. ©Jerry MagnuM Porsbjer
Lot from the Silvermuseet's exhibition Traces: Bones in symmetrical order lying on a sandy ground.
After the ritual bear feast, the bear's bones were carefully buried. The Silvermuseet

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