Small decorative details on an iconic helmet of “Groot -Britain TutankhamCould revise our understanding of early medieval Anglo -Saxon history. But the re -investigation is not due to something new that is found on the famous archaeological trove that is known as Sutton Hoo. Instead, it is due to a small artifact that was recently found in Denmark by a metal detectorist.
Sutton Hoo remains one of the most consistent archaeological finds of the 20th century. Located in Suffolk, England, the 6th and 7th-century cemeteries are considered an invaluable source of Anglo-Saxon artifacts since excavations started in 1938. Recontent relics include Horse Bruges, Armor, Panting, Cooking Gears and Weapons. The most dramatic discovery of Sutton Hoo was also one of the first: an almost complete ship buried full of the body and possessions of a king – possibly Rædwald from East Anglia. Over the years, a piece of head cover called the Sutton Hoo Helmet has come an emblem for the site, as well as the larger period itself.
Experts believe that the roughly 5.5-LBS graceful piece of armor probably functioned both as a decorative and a functional helmet, as well as possible even a royal crown in certain circumstances. Made from iron covered with strips of canned bronze, the helmet has several panels with one of the five engraved designs. Two display interactions between human warriors, two more inclined interrupted pattern work, while one remains unclear because of its deterioration. Archaeologists and historians have generally believed for decades that the motives of the Sutton Hoo Helmet clearly show cultural influences of Uppland, Sweden. Given the similarities with the helmet described in BeowulfScholars believe that the author of the epic poem has achieved inspiration from rulers of that time.
A metal detector hobbyist recently found a striking artifact buried on the island of Tåsinge in Denmark that challenges the assumptions over the time period. Further analysis confirmed the relic as a small metal stamp that is known as a Patrice. The Patrice measures about 2 by 1.4 inches and has a mounted warrior motif with a few curious details. According to National Museum of Denmark Curator Peter Pentz, the figure on the Tåseinge stamp contains a wristmanchet and horse harness that are much more like the one on the Sutton Hoo -helmet than all Swedish contemporaries. If it is true, the role of Denmark in the region deserves a large adaptation at the time.
“If the Sutton Hoo -Helm has indeed been proven that it comes from Denmark, this could considerably change our understanding of power dynamics in North Europe in the 7th century,” Pentz told Pentz Arkeonews.
Instead of a peripheral force, the artwork on the Sutton Hoo Helmet and Tåsinge Stamp Denmark may be just as dynamic as England and Sweden. It can also imply a previously unknown Danish metalworking tradition that influenced the surrounding cultures.
It is still to be seen whether the new hypothesis is ultimately true. Researchers are planning to continue to investigate possible connections between the Sutton Hoo Helmet and Tåsinge stamp by using 3D scanning equipment. They also hope to carry out archaeological surveys from the area in which it was found. Nearby finds already contain several metal leftovers, which suggests that the existence of a workshop that can produce items such as the stamp – perhaps even armor comparable to the Sutton HOO HELMET.
More Deals, Reviews and Purchase Guides