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Detail of hilt
The warrior buried in his ship
Shield from Sutton Hoo
Length: 84.000 cm (sword blade)
Gift of Mrs E.M. Pretty
M&ME 1939,10-10,95
Room 41: Europe AD 300-1100
Sutton Hoo
Sword
The most important weapon in Anglo-Saxon times was the sword, which was often passed down from father to son. Warriors were buried with their swords beside them. This one was made by a master-craftsman, and has a pommel covered in gold and garnets.
The shield was next in importance. The wood on this one rotted away, so it has been built again (reconstructed) recently, but the gold decorations are the same. Can you see the bird of prey, and the thin-looking dragon? Both these animals meant strength and power to the Anglo-Saxons.