Events

Battlefields Trust Online Talk: Byrnies and Battle-axes: The Arms and Armour of the Viking Age

Thursday 23rd April 2026

Note: this topic is a change from that listed in the published programme

From horned helmets to black leather tunics, the popular image of the Viking warrior has been defined by both stage and screen; often resulting in an inaccurate, stereotypical portrayal combining elements from history, fantasy and modern sub-culture. The truth, though, is richer and much more varied than the one encountered in the media. To uncover the true appearance of the Viking warrior this talk will delve into both the archaeological and literary records not only to discover the types of weapons and armour used, but also place them within their wider cultural and social contexts. 

Keith Dowen, MA, FSA, FRHistS, is an historian, archaeologist and authority on arms and armour. Formerly Curator of Arms and Armour at the Wallace Collection, he has worked with many national and international institutions including the Royal Armouries in Leeds, where he served as Assistant Curator until 2024. He sits on the editorial board for two specialist journals and is currently working freelance for a number of UK museums.

 

 
 

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