11th Century Viking Sword

Viking Medieval Sword

11th century Viking Medieval Sword with bronze fittings,
The National Museum of Finland, Helsinki

Viking swords have the reputation of being a hacking weapon with little in the way of grace or beauty. This popular misconception was perpetrated over the last 80 years by Wagner operas and Hollywood films. Over the last two decades, however, collectors and sword enthusiasts who study Viking culture widely recognize that is simply not the case. Many remaining Viking swords are not only functional but beautifully decorated. One such example is this elegant 11 the C. Suontaka Viking sword, found buried next to the body of a Viking princess in Finland.

Interestingly, however, little is known about the sword, its maker, and the Viking woman it was made for. While the remarkable grace and detail suggest a person of high rank or status, no clues attest as to who exactly this princess was.

Exquisitely crafted, the 11th C. Suontaka Viking sword is the finest of its kind. The elegantly carved knot-work on the guard and pommel reflect the height of Viking art.

Mirroring the dragon-prowed ships of the raiding Norsemen, the guard and pommel show the scrolling knots of dragons in interlocking loops. The blade has a deep, crisp fuller typical among Viking swords of the period, impeccably complimenting the intricate hilt design.

While working on the guard and pommel, considerable attention was given to the detailed knotwork associated with the sword. The Medieval Store initial step in making this piece was to study original photographs of the medieval sword. We then magnified the photographs allowing our staff to recreate this beautiful piece.

Photograph of the original sword:
11th century Viking Sword, The National Museum of Finland, Helsinki

5160 High Carbon Steel Differential
Hardening: 60 Rockwell at the Edge
50 At the Core
Fittings: Bronze
Total Length: 36″
Blade length: 30″
Blade width at base: 2″
blade thickness: 1.48 mm
Weight: 2 lbs 13 oz