Traces left by goldsmiths in Viking Age Viborg

Abstract

Traces left by goldsmiths m Viking Age Viborg

During recent years various excavations near the lake Søndersø i Viborg have resulted in location of a previously lost part of the town of Viborg. Around the year 1000 a waterlogged meadow was developed for settlement by means of laying out fascines covered by a layer of sand. From around 1000 to 1300 it was a densely built-up artisans' quarter. Around 1300 the water-level in the lake was raised by approx. 2 m -probably in connection with the construction of Viborg Castle in 1313.

Because of the raised water-level some parts of the settlement were flooded, while others became waterlogged. At the same time the road to Asmild -no doubt the actual reason for this settlement- was flooded and the area lost its importance.

Because of the raised water-level and the lack of building activities in the area during the 600 years between then and the present day, the culture layers are extremely well-preserved.

The finds show many aspects of life in the town and traces of many crafts. Among other things, it is obvious that goldsmiths had been working in the area.

Among the artefacts was a die with a relief decoration which can probably be connected with one of the finest gold pieces from Viking Age Denmark, i.e. one of the brooches from Hornelund.

Another artefact is a little anvil of red deer antler, which bears the marks of several small circular cuts. Analyses have shown that gold has been worked on this piece.

A third group of finds consists of ceramic refining crucibles with a metallic glazing. The ceramic material shows a high content of lead and a low content of silver. The crucibles are thought to have been used for refining silver. The method is described by the monk Theophilus in the Diversis Artibus from the 12th century.

The finds come from different layers which can be related to periods covering most of the 11 th century. The workshops where the jewellery was manufactured have not been found.

Hans Krongaard Kristensen

Moesgård