Insulære beslag fra vikingtidsgraver i Trøndelag: En undersøkelse av gjenstandenes bruk og betydning

Sammendrag

The most common of Insular objects found in Norway are various types of highly-decorated copper-alloy or silver mounts, often found as fragments of the original piece, mainly horse harnesses or from religious equipment such as reliquary shrines, books and altar furniture. Such items are usually found in women’s graves which also contain oval brooches. A great many of the Insular mounts appear to have been converted into brooches by the addition of pin fittings, and are therefore often interpreted as being used as a third brooch to fasten a cape or cloak. Since the early 20th century, this interpretation has become well-repeated in numerous publications. However, this article draws attention to several unpublished examples from the region of Trøndelag where the mounts have been found below the waist of the buried women accompanied by keys and knives and therefore indicates that a use as belt fittings/decoration. This is a use in connection with female Norse dress which hasn’t previously been recognised, and indicate that Insular mounts have had a varied use on female, Norse dresses. The symbolic aspects of these monuments must also have been significant. As distinctive elements of the Norse costume, such exotic items may have been used as important markers signaling status and overseas contacts.