Berserkers on a Bronze Matrix Used in the Manufacture of Helmet Plaques.
Bjornhouda, Oland, Sweden, 6th century.


Object from the exhibition 'We call them Vikings' produced by The Swedish History Museum
Matrix stamp
Bronze, copy
The original was found in Björnhovda, Torslunda, Öland, Sweden. SHM 29750:211
Source: The Swedish History Museum, Stockholm



Bronze matrix used in the manufacture of helmet plaques, Sweden, 6th century. From Bjornhouda, Torslunda parish, Oland. The dancing figure, a berserker, wears a helmet whose horns terminate in birds’ heads. His companion [an Ulfhednar] wears the mask of a wolf or bear. The berserkers were Norse warriors who wore coats of wolf or bear skin and were said to fight with an uncontrollable rage. From the Statens Historiska Museum, Stockholm.
Text source: Alamy.



A Berserkr in Armies of the Dark Ages 600-1066 by Ian Heath
An Ulfhednar in Armies of the Dark Ages 600-1066 by Ian Heath
Other Illustrations of Scandinavian Costume and Soldiers
6th Century Illustrations of Costume and Soldiers









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