Sue's favourite Anglo-Saxon sword I Curator's Corner S4 Ep 4 #CuratorsCorner #SuttonSue
The British Museum・10 minutes read
The curator of European early medieval collections discusses the significance of early Anglo-Saxon swords, highlighting their use in warfare, symbolism of prestige, and unique patterns of wear on the hilts. Swords from this period not only reflect the identity of their owners but also showcase a mix of styles, fittings, and inscriptions, providing insights into the history and biography of the weapon.
Insights
- Swords in the early Anglo-Saxon period were not just tools for warfare but also symbols of prestige and identity, often buried with the deceased to reflect their importance in society.
- The wear patterns on sword hilts, such as the worn gilding and decorations on the pommel from Faversham, Kent, offer insights into the history and individual stories of these artifacts, showcasing a mix of styles and symbolic elements that enrich their biographies.
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Recent questions
What were early Anglo-Saxon swords used for?
Warfare
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Summary
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Early Anglo-Saxon Swords: Symbols of Prestige
- The curator of European early medieval collections discusses favorite artifacts, early Anglo-Saxon swords, from the 6th to early 7th century.
- Swords were exclusively for warfare in the early Anglo-Saxon period, symbolizing prestige and identity, often buried with the dead.
- Swords' hilts show wear over time, like the pommel from Faversham, Kent, with worn gilding and decorations.
- The wear on sword hilts is demonstrated by the hand rest on the pommel, leading to distinctive patterns of wear.
- Swords from this period may acquire a mix of styles from different owners, like one with gold fittings and garnets from the early 7th century.
- Ring fittings on swords may symbolize oaths sworn by warriors, adding to the sword's biography and history.
- An old sword, like the plainest one discussed, with a faint rune inscription, symbolizes dependability, experience, and strength, offering a life lesson on embracing age and experience.
