Balladoole Viking Boat Burial Strap-end
Date made: Viking
Description: Tongue-shaped strap end - bronze
Bottom left object in image.
These ornate strap-ends and buckles for spurs were found buried with a Viking at Balladoole, along with other items of equestrian equipment. Although the Viking had been buried with these high-status goods, he had no sword. This suggests that he had been a trader rather than a warrior.
The straps and buckles were used to hold the spurs round the heel of a horse rider and are made from bronze which was carved and then covered in silver and then gilded. The design of the carving is similar to other buckles made in France.
Vikings are more widely known for their sea-skills, but they were accomplished horse riders too. The Viking at Balladoole was buried with the equipment he would need to carry on this skill in the next world.
See 1966-0372/0001 - /00034 for associated finds
Measurements: 49mm x 22m x 10m
Materials: copper alloy
Date found: 1945
Object name: strap fitting
Collection: Archaeology Collection
ID number: 1966-0372/21