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Hand Stone — Maritime Archaeology Museum

Hand Stone

Maritime Archaeology Museum Maritime History Historical
Period
Historical
Date
2025-08-18
Materials
Stone
Dimensions
L-27.8cm, W-9cm
Site
Godawaya Shipwreck
Location
Conversation Labotory
Inventory
SL/S/GDV/2021/002

Full Description

Made of mudstone, the surface is porous due to weathering.
Historical Context The grinding stones and hand stones found on the Godawaya ship are evidence of their importance as trade items in maritime trade (ancient Indian Ocean networks) around 2000 BC. Among the discoveredgrinding stones and hand stones, approximately five matched pairs can be identified, suggesting that these items were specifically used for grinding purposes. They also highlight Sri Lanka’s role as a hub for maritime trade and reveal the cultural, local, and economic value of grinding technology in ancient times.

Gallery

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