Viking Valkyrie-amulet Hårby, bronze

Product description

The pendant is crafted in the shape of a Valkyrie. The Valkyries were considered celestial beings in the service of Odin, the supreme god of the Viking pantheon. Literally translated, "Valkyrie" means "chooser of the fallen". According to Viking lore, Valkyries are responsible for selecting the brave warriors on the battlefield who are worthy of being taken to the mythical Valhalla, the great hall of the fallen. Valkyries are also battle goddesses, participating in battles themselves and aiding the chosen heroes. Historically, images and stories of Valkyries can be found in Old Norse literature, particularly in the Eddas and the sagas. Amongst these depictions, the pendant could also be interpreted as an image of a female warrior, though this is considered less likely, as her clothing is less practical and she is not wearing a helmet.