Viking Valkyrie-amulet Hårby, bronze

Product description

This pendant was made based on a 9th century original found in Hårby in Southwest Funen in Denmark.

The Valkyries were considered heavenly beings in service of Odin, the chief god of the Viking pantheon. Literally translated, "Valkyrie" means "chooser of the slain". According to Viking stories, Valkyries are responsible for selecting the brave warriors on the battlefield who are worthy of being brought to the mythical Walhalla, the great hall of the fallen. Valkyries are also war goddesses, who themselves participate in combat and help the chosen heroes. Historically, images and stories of Valkyries can be found in Old Norse literature, particularly in the Edda's and the saga's. In addition to a Valkyrie, the pendant could also be an image of a female warrior, but this is less likely because her clothing is less practical and she does not wear a helmet.

Valkyrie amulet are often associated with Viking Völva's but also with hypotheses of female Viking warriors, shield maidens who actually participated in military actions.