Refers to a style of Scandinavian art dating from the 11th century. The term is derived from the geological name for the sandstone beds around Oslo, Norway, which were apparently the source of stone for many carvings in this style, though the stone was often carved elsewhere. The style probably developed in Danish centers and spread broadly in Scandinavia, England, and Ireland. The style continues to employ the earlier Mammen animal motifs, with innovations influenced by Anglo-Saxon and Ottonian ornament. The style is often characterized by plant motifs with stems arranged in strict axiality and intertwining tendrils, and by compositional schemes that are asymmetrical and have an additive character.
