Circa 1000–1200 AD. Viking. A fine forged-iron spearhead from Viking-era Europe with a long conical socket decorated with silver inlays in a lozengiform pattern. Excellent condition; custom-made stand included. Spears were used both for close combat and as throwing weapons. In Norse mythology, at the very first battle in the world, Odin threw a spear over the heads of his enemies in order to begin the fight. For more information on Viking spears, see Petersen, Jan (1919). De Norske Vikingsverd & Kristiania and Hubbard, B. (2016) The Viking Warrior. Amber Books Ltd, London, 216–218. Size: L:400mm / W:25mm ; 265g. Provenance: Property of a European collector, previously acquired from Mr. W. G. F. in 1918 in Germany. The original invoice will accompany this purchase.