An Early Medieval sword with unique inlays from Finland

Abstract

<p>An Early Medieval sword from Valkeakoski Haukila, Finland was spotted by metal detector hobbyists and lifted during a scientific excavation, which revealed a cremation cemetery dating to circa AD 1050-1150. Based on the unique inlays in the blade, the sword was possibly manufactured in a central European or West Scandinavian smithy. It probably arrived north as an item of trade, was re-forged, and finally ritually discarded in a cemetery. The damage in the blade may be considered use-wear and battle damage. It hints to a turbulent period in Early Medieval (11th-13th century) Finland, especially the Tavastia region, which may have escalated in violent confrontations.</p>