British Artefacts Middle Saxon and Viking
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| MPN | 978-1-897738-382 |
|---|---|
| Author | Brett Hammond |
| Pages | 148 |
British Artefacts: Middle Saxon and Viking - By Brett Hammond
Following on from the first volume, which explored artefacts from the Adventus Saxonum through to the mid-7th century and the rise of Christianity, this second instalment in the British Artefacts series turns to the vibrant Middle Saxon period and the age of the Vikings.
It examines the profound impact of the Viking incursions on Anglo-Saxon life — from the campaigns of the Great Army and King Alfred's resistance, to the establishment of the Danelaw, its reconquest under Edward the Elder, and the unification of England during King Athelstan's reign.
Contents and Features
The volume is structured around clear, thematic chapters:
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The Middle Saxon & Viking Period
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Runes & Roman Script
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Artefact Production & Distribution
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Art Styles
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Advice for Collectors
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Advice for Finders
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Metal Artefacts – including brooches, buckles, strap ends, fasteners and tags, pendants, mounts, rings and bracelets, weapons and fittings, ecclesiastical and liturgical items, gaming pieces, weights, keys, tools and utensils
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Non-Metallic Artefacts
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Anglo-Saxon & Viking Burials
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Middle Saxon & Viking Kingdoms
Lavishly illustrated with nearly 400 full-colour photographs and maps, the book brings each artefact vividly to life.
Overview
The book opens with an accessible introduction to the historical background, exploring trade, manufacture and distribution networks. It also provides valuable guidance for collectors and finders, making it both informative and practical.
Sections on Roman and runic scripts outline the writing systems of Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian cultures, while the art styles chapter explores the distinctive design traditions of the period in rich visual detail.
Artefacts are presented logically by type, covering both metallic and non-metallic materials such as glass, amber, bone and horn. Burial customs — both inhumation and cremation — are succinctly discussed, illustrated with typical grave plans, and supported by concise coverage of Scandinavian settlement and the key political kingdoms of the age.
The volume concludes with comprehensive reference materials, including tables of artefact data, a glossary, bibliography and index
Highlights
British Artefacts: Middle Saxon and Viking is both scholarly and visually stunning, combining meticulous research with exceptional photography. Among its many treasures are a unique gold finger ring inscribed with the name Cynefrid, a gilded Irish mount, and several magnificent Viking swords — each testament to the craftsmanship and cultural exchange of early medieval Britain.
This volume offers remarkable depth and scope, appealing to historians, archaeologists, collectors and anyone captivated by the artistry and legacy of the Anglo-Saxon and Viking worlds.