Viking buckle stylized birds

Product description

The buckle is based on a 9th-century original found in a male grave in Frøyland. It is well-suited to belt straps with a width of 2 cm and has a bronze finish.

Both ends of the buckle feature a stylised bird head with a long beak—a popular motif in Viking art. The design of the buckle fits within the Jellinge style, which was prevalent from around 890 to 990. Characteristic of the Jellinge style are so-called ribbon-shaped animals, as seen on this buckle. These ribbon animals have striped bodies, their heads are shown in profile, and they have round eyes—all features clearly visible on this piece.

The depiction of the animal heads in profile distinguishes the Jellinge style from the earlier Borre style, in which the animals are shown face-on.

Raven symbols are likely associated with intelligence, tact, knowledge, magic, and prophetic insight. Whilst the wolf is more symbolic of cunning, aggression, and strength, the raven represents thoughtfulness, sharp perception, and the careful pursuit of goals. Both creatures highlight different aspects of Germanic and Viking culture. They come together in the figure of the god Odin/Wodan, whose role is to guard the cosmic order.