Northern Europe, Viking Age, 9th to 11th century. Iron sword with long straight blade, complex bronze guard, and complex bronze pommel, the fittings decorated with dotted punched or drilled designs. The grip is absent, leaving the tang exposed. The form and decoration are noted with reference to Swords of the Viking Age by Ian Peirce, introduction by Ewart Oakeshott, including comparisons to examples in the Universitetets Oldsaksamling, Oslo, and to Jan Petersen?s De Norske Vikingesverd.

Measurements 33" L

Materials: Iron blade with complex bronze guard and pommel.

Ex. Giustino Collection, Ex. Robert Ekenstierna Collection, Cold Spring Harbor, New York. For similar reference "Swords of the Viking Age", by Ian Peirce, intro by Ewart Oakeshott. Page 24, 108, University Oldsaksamling, Oslo. Also CF "De Norske Vikingesverd" pg111.

Archaeological condition, with heavy oxidation, encrustation, pitting, and surface losses throughout. Grip lacking. Bronze fittings with patina, wear, and areas of oxidation. Stable overall, with wear consistent with age.