A groundbreaking discovery in Denmark has shaken the foundations of Anglo-Saxon history, suggesting that the iconic Sutton Hoo helmet may have originated in Viking Scandinavia rather than Sweden.
The discovery of a small metal stamp on an island in southern Denmark has raised questions about the origins of the iconic Sutton Hoo helmet, which was once believed to have links to Sweden. ‘The stamp, found by local archaeologist Jan Hjort two years ago, bears striking similarities to the motifs on the famous helmet.’
The Sutton Hoo helmet is a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon artifact discovered in Suffolk, England.
Dating back to the early Middle Ages, it is one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century.
The helmet's design features a conical shape with 'intrinsic animal ornamentation' and a nasal guard.
Made from iron and copper alloy, its original purpose was likely for ceremonial or burial purposes.
Excavated in 1939, the Sutton Hoo helmet is now housed at the British Museum, providing valuable insights into Anglo-Saxon culture and craftsmanship.
The copper-alloy stamp measures just 5cm by 4cm and is now believed to be a ‘die’, also known as a ‘patrice’. While its pattern is not identical to the Sutton Hoo helmet, after close study of the two fragmented helmet panels, curator Peter Pentz says there are many similarities. If we focus on the horse itself, he notes that it’s the same horse, with similar nose piece, mane, ear, and tail.
The Danish discovery raises the possibility that the Sutton Hoo helmet may have originated in Denmark, rather than Sweden as previously thought. ‘Mr Pentz believes that Taasinge, where the stamp was found, may have been home to a 7th Century metal workshop, which produced foils and other metal scraps.’ The curator thinks the new find builds on to a theory that Denmark was more important during this era than previously thought, potentially placing Sweden and England on the periphery of a central Danish ‘power base’.
The Sutton Hoo helmet is an Anglo-Saxon artifact discovered in Suffolk, England.
Dated to the 7th century, it is a rare example of early medieval English metalwork.
The helmet's origins are linked to the Sutton Hoo ship burial, which included other treasures like a sword and shield.
Archaeologists believe the helmet was made by a skilled artisan using techniques from the Roman era.
Its design features intricate patterns and a distinctive nose guard.
The Sutton Hoo helmet is now housed at the British Museum, providing valuable insights into Anglo-Saxon culture.
The Sutton Hoo helmet is widely considered to be England‘s ‘Valley of the Kings’, with its 1939 discovery revolutionizing our understanding of the Anglo-Saxons. ‘The helmet itself is decorated with various motifs, including two small panels depicting warriors on horseback.’ It is believed to have been influenced by earlier Roman style and was previously thought to have come from Uppland in eastern Sweden.
The Danish discovery of the metal stamp has sparked new debates about the origins and significance of the Sutton Hoo helmet. As a next step, ‘Mr Pentz hopes that there will be detailed 3D scanning of the motifs to further investigate their connection.’ The find will go on display at the National Museum in Copenhagen in April, providing another opportunity for scholars and the public to examine this iconic piece of Anglo-Saxon history.
Sutton Hoo is a renowned archaeological site in Suffolk, England, dating back to the 7th century.
The site's significance lies in its discovery of an Anglo-Saxon ship burial, which provided valuable insights into the culture and history of the time.
Excavations revealed a 27-meter-long ship, accompanied by a wealth of artifacts, including a helmet, sword, and shield.
These findings have significantly contributed to our understanding of the Anglo-Saxon era, shedding light on their social hierarchy, trade networks, and funerary practices.
If the Sutton Hoo helmet is indeed proved to have come from Denmark, it could change our understanding of the balance of power in 7th Century northern Europe. ‘Mr Pentz believes that Denmark was more important during this era than previously thought, potentially placing Sweden and England on the periphery of a central Danish ‘power base’.‘ However, the National Trust’s Ms Howarth is more sceptical, citing the need for further investigation to pinpoint exactly the relationship and power dynamic between Denmark, Sweden, and the community at Sutton Hoo.
