Viking Firesteel From Gotland

I copied this ornate viking firesteel from a find in Gotland.  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 of Gotland produced 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 patterned plates are cast in bronze or sterling silver and the steel itself is very hard and strikes fluent sparks.

height 90mm