Viking period: Ten beautiful, original ancient blue Viking glass beads (10) (No reserve price)

Beautiful lot consisting of 10 original characteristic blue Viking glass beads. Nine drop beads and one central bead. The Vikings were fond of blue beads in various forms. Excavation finds.

* Shipping only to countries within the European Union.

Viking glass beads are small decorative beads made from glass that were used by the Vikings during the Viking Age, which spanned roughly from the late 8th century to the early 11th century. These beads played an important role in Viking culture, trade, and ornamentation. They were used for various purposes, including personal adornment, trade, and even as valuable offerings in religious and burial contexts.

Here are some key points about Viking glass beads:

Trade and Commerce: Glass beads were valuable commodities in Viking society and were used as a form of currency, especially in long-distance trade. Beads, along with other goods like furs, amber, and precious metals, were exchanged for commodities from distant lands.

Personal Adornment: Viking glass beads were often worn as jewelry and were a popular means of personal adornment. They were used to create necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories. Different colors, shapes, and sizes of beads were combined to create intricate and colorful patterns.

Symbolism and Status: The choice of beads and the way they were worn could convey social status, cultural identity, and personal beliefs. Some beads might have been associated with specific symbols or deities, making them important markers of cultural and religious affiliations.

Religious Significance: Glass beads, like other forms of jewelry and artifacts, were sometimes used in religious rituals and offerings. They have been found in archaeological contexts associated with religious practices and burials.

Burial Context: Glass beads were occasionally included as grave goods in Viking burials, particularly those of high-status individuals. These beads symbolized both the individual's wealth and possibly their beliefs about the afterlife.

Variety and Craftsmanship: Viking glass beads came in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They could be plain, striped, spotted, or decorated with intricate patterns. The beads were made using various glassworking techniques, including winding, molding, and layering.

Sources of Glass: The raw materials for Viking glass beads likely came from various sources, including local production and trade networks. It's believed that some beads were made in Viking settlements, while others were imported.

Archaeological Discoveries: Viking glass beads have been found in archaeological sites across Scandinavia and in other regions where the Vikings had a presence. They are often uncovered in trading centers, settlements, and burial sites.

Viking glass beads offer a glimpse into the aesthetic preferences, trade networks, and cultural practices of the Viking Age. They are treasured artifacts that provide valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of this fascinating historical period.

Material: glass
Dating: 8th/11th century.
Origin: Europe
Dimensions: between 12 mm and 21 mm
Condition: good, with the usual signs of aging.

Provenance.
The supplier guarantees that he has acquired this item legally.
Originating from a Dutch collection gathered since 1975

See photos/scans for an accurate impression.
Registered shipping from the Netherlands.

Important information:
For transport within the European Union, no export license is needed for this lot.

Due to the importance of this piece, an export license must be applied for once it must be shipped outside the European Union.
This is done via the heritage inspectorate of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science.
This can only be done after sale and may take some time.

The supplier guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot.
He will ensure that any licenses necessary for the shipment of this lot will be arranged.
If that takes more than a few days, the buyer will be informed.