Viking Tongue Brooch from Birka, Bronze, Pair

Viking Tongue Brooch from Birka, Bronze, Pair

A beautiful replica of a Viking Age brooch or fibula, modeled after an archaeological find dated to the 9th century. The original piece found in Birka/Björkö, Sweden, is now on display at the Historical Museum (Historiska Museet) in Stockholm.

This so-called tongue brooch is cast from bronze and closely replicates the motifs of the original artefact. It is adorned with the representation of a tree flanked by two intertwined serpents - a scene believed to be a depiction of Góinn and Móinn gnawing at the roots of the world ash tree Yggdrasil (Poetic Edda). The back of the brooch is equipped with a thick, sturdy bronze pin for proper fastening to your garment.

Although finds have remained quite rare to date, flat tongue-shaped brooches / fibulae probably also belonged to the Viking women's attire, just like the better known oval brooches (tortoise brooches) or box brooches. They were usually about 10 cm long and were worn in pairs to fasten the shoulder straps of the smokkr or hangerok (apron dress) or to hold cloaks and shawls in place. They also sometimes featured an additional ring or eyelet to which ornamental strings of beads or even small utility utensils of everyday life (keys, scissors, etc.) could be attached (the item we offer here does not include any ring or eyelet).

This lovely piece of jewellery is a fine example of Norse art that will make any early medieval / Dark Ages garb look all the more authentic.

It is sold as a pair.

Details:
- Material: bronze (antiqued)
- Length: approx. 9 cm
- Max. width: approx. 4.5 cm
- Thickness: approx. 2 mm
- Back pin: approx. 7 cm long, 3 mm thick
- Weight (pair): approx. 130 g

Specs may slightly vary from piece to piece.