An intricate Sword, buckle and arrows are among a treasure trove of goods discovered in a Viking burial in Orkney, dating back around 1,200 years. The Mayback Viking burial in Papa Westray was first discovered back in 2015, but analysis of the precious items is now well underway. One of the most exciting items is a sword, which is believed to be a Pederson Type D sword – one of the heaviest Viking weapons.

The corroded sword partially excavated from sandy soil block [Credit: Historic Environment  Scotland/AOC Archaeology]

Andrew Morrison, from AOC Archaeology, said: "Given very few Viking Age scabbards have survived, the Mayback example is a very important addition. We know of at least 30 of these blades throughout the Viking world. Approximately half have been found in Norway, with others discovered as far west as Dublin, and as far east as Slovakia, Poland, and Russia. However, the only other Type D sword is from the Isle of Eigg. That one was excavated in the 1830s."

The sword removed en bloc [Credit: Historic Environment Scotland/ AOC Archaeology]

The sword was discovered in an unusual position within the burial – laid over the top of the body, with the hilt at the hip and the blade tip over the face. According to the archaeologists, the placement of a sword alongside the body, with the blade facing downwards, is much more common. To preserve as much evidence as possible, the researchers lifted the whole sword and its surrounding soil in a block to be transported to the lab and forensically excavated there.

Arrow with remains of wooden shaft [Credit: Historic Environment Scotland/ AOC Archaeology]

"It's so fragile we don't even know what the underside looks like yet, so our understanding is sure to change in the coming months," Mr Morrison said. "The iron in the sword has heavily corroded, with many of the striking details only visible through x-ray!"

Viking shield boss found at Mayback [Credit: Historic Environment Scotland/ AOC Archaeology]

The researchers believe the sword is a Pederson Type D – a Viking sword associated with the 9th century. "Type D swords are some of the heaviest from the Viking Age, which would need the balance of a substantial hilt to stabilize them," Mr Morrison explained. "They are characterized by decorative hilts.  Elaborate geometric designs and contrasting non-ferrous metals were used to create impressive effects on the upper and lower guards, as well as the pommel." 

The sword's upper and lower guards are highly decorated [Credit: Historic Environment Scotland/ AOC Archaeology]

Initial x-ray scans suggest that the Mayback sword's guards are highly decorated, featuring a honeycomb-like pattern of elongated hexagons. Meanwhile, the hilt appears to be covered in mineralised organics, which could be evidence of a protective cover sewn directly onto the sword, according to the researchers. "If so, we could be about to get a rare glimpse of how weaponry was stored when not in use," Mr Morrison said.

Buckle attached to the scabbard [Credit: Historic Environment Scotland/ AOC Archaeology]

A brass or bronze buckle loop was also discovered stuck to the sword due to corrosion, and may have been part of the sword scabbard, or part of a waist belt. Other key finds at the site were a bundle of arrowheads still attached to their arrow shafts, and two shield bosses. Mr Morrison said: "It's not common to find arrows in Viking graves and when they are found, they're usually retrieved as single arrows. Interestingly, three quivers have now been found in Viking graves in Orkney, at Scar, Rousay, and now Mayback."

Excavations at the site are still underway, and it's likely that even more Viking items will be uncovered, Mr Morrsion added. "The work planned over the next few months has the potential to really blow some minds," he said.

Author: Shivali Best | Source: Daily Mail [December 09, 2021]