The rare splendor was found on a field by two enthusiasts with a metal detector. Experts believe it is from the early ninth century. – It is dead cool to bring in such a rare find from this area. We were all dumb. It is a dream find, says archaeologist Zanette Glørstad at the Archaeological Museum, University of Stavanger. Archaeologist Zanette Glørstad. Photo: Thomas Ystrøm / news The gilded sword grip, or handle, is now being cleaned, to bring out the rich details with animal heads and borders of silver. The iron sword blade itself has probably disintegrated. – We find many swords, but this is exceptional. The advanced decor indicates that it was imported from what was then the Frankish Empire or from the British Isles, says Glørstad. In Norway, 15–20 swords of this type have been found, a so-called D-sword, which is among the finest from the Viking Age. – Could it have been used in combat? – It has probably rather been a status symbol, a man’s jewelery, and it must have belonged to a very resourceful man. The sword belongs to a rare type, which includes the richest decorated and heaviest sword types from the Viking Age Photo: Thomas Ystrøm / news Confirms power center The site is known for several important finds from the Viking Age, including Gauseldronningen’s tomb – one of the richest female graves after the Oseberg find. There were also objects from the British Isles. – It shows that the area was a central hub in the contact across the North Sea. The sword indicates that we are dealing with a ruler figure with a large network of contacts, corresponding to the Gausel Queen. This year it is 1150 years since Harald Hårfagre defeated his opponents in Hafrsfjord, not far from the site, and became Norway’s first king. – The large farms and the riches that were here can be one of many factors that led to the battle taking place right here in the area, says Glørstad. Erik Alve took a picture of the sword part he found in March this year. Photo: Erik Alver / private Took the big fish The museum can thank two eager hobby detectors for the sensational discovery. – That feeling when you find something is euphoric. It’s like getting a huge fish. You will be very happy, and will want to apply again, says Erik Alve. Erik Alve found parts from the rare sword. Photo: Thomas Ystrøm / news When he made the discovery in March, he knew that his detector friend Jone Holgersen had found something interesting in the same place a few months before. He put the puzzle together, and realized they had found two parts from the same sword. -I thought. This is good. It has to enter the museum faster than shit. Holgersen is also satisfied with his contribution. – I have been doing this for four or five years, and found a lot of fun. A gold ring from the Middle Ages, among other things, but this is probably the coolest thing I have done, and I will hardly top it. Jone Holgersen found the first part of the sword. Photo: private – Why are you doing this? – The hope is to save culturally important objects. When the sword has been preserved, the museum will contact researchers abroad to find out more. Eventually it will be exhibited so the audience can see it.
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Unique sword from the Viking Age found in Stavanger – news Rogaland – Local news, TV and radio
