Key Bronze Gotland 9./10. century Sweden

Viking pendant key Gotland / Sweden 9.-10. century
Weight: 26.4 grams
Material: bronze
Size: 3.5 x 5.5 cm

These keys were an important part of women's clothing from the Viking Age and symbolized the wearer as the landlady. It was worn on a chain or ribbon on the garment. The original comes from a Swedish find and is dated to the 9th / 10th century.

Keys made of iron, bronze, copper etc. were widespread in medieval Europe. Some of them are small and simply made, others with a beautiful, ornate handle. The keys indicate two things: the status and financial situation of women. The woman hung the keys on a chain or belt and always carried it with her.

At the end of the wedding ceremony, the husband gave the wife all the keys to the house, as she was now in charge of the manor's fate. This included, for example: stockpiling, cooking, washing, cleaning, mending and making clothes, etc.

Today the key ring is a romantic gift, it is a symbol of love and can therefore be the key to the heart of the beloved woman. ;)