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Viking-era scabbard attachments

Posted: Sat Jan 12, 2019 5:39 am
by Straelbora
So someone has combined an analysis of archeological finds and period art to try and figure out different ways that Viking-era Norse attached their scabbards to their belts.

https://www.patreon.com/posts/23906171? ... JzmcdYfli4

Re: Viking-era scabbard attachments

Posted: Fri Jan 18, 2019 4:58 am
by Kortoso
Thank you for sharing this here! This provides, I think, a lot of material for "experimental archeology" - similar to work done regarding later period suspension systems.

Re: Viking-era scabbard attachments

Posted: Sat Jan 19, 2019 2:20 pm
by Straelbora
Kortoso wrote:Thank you for sharing this here! This provides, I think, a lot of material for "experimental archeology" - similar to work done regarding later period suspension systems.
It just reminds me that people will always take a simple task and make it more complicated than it needs to be.

Re: Viking-era scabbard attachments

Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2019 10:12 am
by Kortoso
I don't see it that way.
Modern "wall hanger" swords are often sold with vertical suspension systems, basic similar to what you'd see on a knife. It doesn't require too much extra thought or material, and 99% of the purchasers will just hang the swords on the wall, or show up at the office Hallowe'en party with it.
But try walking more than a mile (or run during a history channel special) with the damn scabbard slapping against your leg, and you're likely to want to stop, get out some leather thongs and start rigging up something serviceable.

Re: Viking-era scabbard attachments

Posted: Tue Jan 22, 2019 2:27 pm
by HuerTa
I think the art of it is something to take into consideration. Many of our ancient brethren had a great talent for melding form and function and I think this article is a beautiful example of that. I don't see it as complicated, but more as a culture that took enough pride in their tools to also make them beautiful. It's a bit of deadly irony if that makes sense, but it's one I really appreciate.