Det store i det små – vikingtidens finsmeder under lupen

Abstract

From small detail to big picture – a scientific analysis of Viking Age non-ferrous metalworkers. Archaeometallurgical analyses of the non-ferrous metalworking assemblage from Kaupang gave me valuable experience from scientific archaeology. The scientific analyses gave a more precise understanding of the access to raw materials and challenged earlier interpretations of urban metalwork. They demonstrated that Viking-age nonferrous metalworkers mastered a wide range of metals and alloys. The investigations contributed to more than facts, they made me aware of my pre-understanding of the material and the need for an adequate vocabulary when discussing past metalwork. The scientific analyses provide information unattainable from archaeological artefact studies. When omitting archaeometallurgical analyses it is thus essential to be aware of the lack of information in these fields. Some results from the scientific investigations differed from what I expected; this was a positive experience, forcing me to reconsider hasty conclusions.