Vikings were known for their love of exploration, conquest, and adventure. But they were also skilled in arts and crafts, and their homes reflected this in the form of beautiful decorations and ornate furnishings. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how Vikings decorated their homes, from their use of textiles and metalwork to their love of intricate carvings and paintings.
1. Introduction
The Vikings were a seafaring people who originated in Scandinavia in the 8th century. They were known for their prowess in warfare and exploration, but they were also skilled in arts and crafts. Their homes were a reflection of this, and they decorated them with beautiful objects that were both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
2. Textiles
One of the ways in which Vikings decorated their homes was through the use of textiles. They were skilled in the art of weaving, and they produced a wide variety of fabrics, from simple linens to ornate tapestries. These textiles were used for clothing, but they were also used to decorate their homes. They would hang tapestries on the walls, use decorative cushions, and cover their furniture with intricate embroidery.
3. Metalwork
Vikings were also skilled in metalwork, and they used this skill to create beautiful objects for their homes. They would make decorative hinges for their doors, candle holders, and intricate jewelry boxes. They would also make elaborate chandeliers and candelabras, which would be hung from the ceiling.
4. Carvings
Another way in which Vikings decorated their homes was through the use of intricate carvings. They would carve patterns into the wooden beams of their homes, and they would also carve decorative motifs into furniture, such as chairs and chests. The Vikings were particularly fond of animal motifs, and they would often carve intricate images of dragons, serpents, and other animals into their furniture.
5. Paintings
Paintings were also a common form of decoration in Viking homes. They would paint images on the walls, often depicting scenes from Norse mythology. They would also paint decorative motifs onto their furniture, such as the intricate knotwork patterns that are characteristic of Viking art.
6. Runes
Runes were an important part of Viking culture, and they were often used as a form of decoration in their homes. They would carve runes into wooden beams and furniture, and they would also paint them onto walls and other surfaces. The Vikings believed that runes had magical properties, and they would use them for protection and good luck.
7. Conclusion
In conclusion, Vikings were skilled in arts and crafts, and their homes were a reflection of this. They decorated their homes with beautiful objects that were both practical and aesthetically pleasing. They used textiles, metalwork, carvings, paintings, and runes to create a unique and beautiful aesthetic that is still admired today.
8. FAQs
Did Vikings use any specific colors in their decorations?
Yes, Vikings were known to use bright colors such as red, yellow, and blue in their decorations.
What kind of furniture did Vikings use in their homes?
Vikings used simple wooden furniture such as chairs, benches, and chests.
Did Vikings use any specific motifs in their decorations?
Yes, Vikings were particularly fond of animal motifs, such as dragons and serpents.
