Viking Iron Petersen Type H Sword > Lot No. 1243

Description:
A hand-forged iron sword with tapering blade and narrow point; the blade with broad fuller and carburised edges; the central section of the blade composed from four pattern-welded cores forge-welded together; the tang an extension of the blade with pattern-welded central section; the guard elliptical in plan with inlaid bronze and copper wire to the outer faces, incised parallel lines to the upper face; the pommel of Petersen's Type H with inlaid bronze and copper wire to both faces, in two blocks respecting the guard and pommel-cap.

Culture/Period:
Circa 9th century AD

Measurements:
Iron, 990 grams, 97 cm

Size :
38"

Condition:
Very fine condition.

References:
Cf. similar sword from Dungolman River, Co. Meath, Eire in the National Museum of Ireland, published in Peirce, I. Swords of the Viking Age pages 56-7 and similar from Peltorinne (Finland), ibid. p.54-5 and Kilmainham cemetery (Eire) ibid. p.58-9.

Provenance:
From an important West Country collection.

Estimate: £8,000 - 12,000 (EUR 9,910 - 14,870; USD 12,660 - 18,990)

Auction date: Wednesday 14th March 2012 - Coins & 15-16 March 2012 - Antiquities at The Swedenborg Hall >> Coins & Antiquities