Swords of the Viking Age

Representative examples of swords from 8th-11th century, fully described and illustrated, with general overview.

This beautifully illustrated work fills a gap in the literature in English on the swords made and used in northern Europe during the Viking age, between the mid eighth and the mid eleventh centuries. Ewart Oakeshott outlines the significance and diversity of these ancient heirlooms; co-author Ian Peirce, who handled hundreds of swords in his research for this book in museums across northern Europe, selects and describes sixty of the finest representative weapons. Where possible, full-length photographs are included, in addition to illustrations of detail; an illustrated overview of blade types and construction, pattern-welding, inscription and handle forms and their classificationprefaces the catalogue of examples which is the principal part of this work.

IAN PEIRCE was a lecturer and museum consultant specialising in early swords; EWART OAKESHOTT was renowned for his pioneer studies on a wide range of medieval swords.

Author: Ian Peirce
Publisher: Boydell Press
Published: 09/08/2005
Pages: 176
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 1.40lbs
Size: 8.50h x 10.90w x 0.50d
ISBN13: 9781843830894
ISBN10: 1843830892
BISAC Categories:
- History | Military | Weapons
- History | Europe | Medieval
- History | Europe | Nordic Countries