Viking Firesteel from Finland

This Viking firesteel is a type being produced in Finland during the Viking Age. I have seen these firesteels from Viking excavations Birka and Haithabu (Hedeby) and in a grave with Scandinavian objects in Luistari in Finland.

To strike a spark in the northern darkness and to conjure a fire was more than just a survival skill. It played a role in myth and ritual. Perhaps this is why the Vikings wore this type of ornate viking firesteel, as a symbol of the flame that keeps the darkness at bay. It is intended to be worn hanging from the belt; more than just a simple tool, it is also a ceremonial firesteel.

The back is cast in bronze or sterling silver and the steel itself is very hard and strikes fluent sparks.

Width 60mm