1042 - Late Viking Sword with decorative (swastika) inlays, Scandinavia, circa 1000

Late Viking Sword with decorative (swastika) inlays, Scandinavia, circa 1000 Sword with pommel and crossguard similar to the Petersen C type. The blade tapers continuously downward with an elongated point. In the center is a wide groove that extends almost to the tip, followed by the broad bevels of the cutting edge. A solid crossguard is mounted on a wide, upward-tapering tang. The crossguard, which is rectangular when viewed from above and spindle-shaped in cross-section, features five square panels on each side, each bordered by bronze-colored wire inlays. Bronze-colored “St. Andrew’s crosses” are inlaid within these panels, with triangles made of silver wire inlays set in their corners. The pommel consists of a solid, narrow crossbar topped by a triangular section—separately crafted and mounted—with rounded upper edges. The crossbar is decorated at the top and bottom with bronze-colored wire inlays along the edges and a braided band of silver wire in between. The triangular pommel tip is divided into squares by bronze-colored wire inlays, each containing a swastika made of silver wire inlays. Two seamless, cast copper bands are slid onto the hilt, decorated with a complex braided pattern. Small nicks along the cutting edge and traces of corrosion on the blade’s surface. Wire inlays on the crossguard and pommel are partially missing. Overall in very good condition with good iron substance; expertly restored and stabilized. Length 95 cm. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Provenance: Private collection in southern Germany; acquired on the Brussels art market in the 1990s. Condition: II -