Irish bronze cloak brooch with openwork knot decoration, inspired by Irish brooches of the Viking Age. The open ring has widened, decorated terminals, their interlacing lines complemented by a long pin. The brooch fastens a cloak or wrap while also forming a distinctive part of the outfit.
- Material: bronze
- Decoration: openwork knotwork
- Brooch dimensions: 5 × 4.5 cm
- Pin length: 7 cm
The Vikings in Ireland left much more than memories of raids. The first recorded attacks date to 795, but during the 9th century Scandinavians also began to settle on the island. In 841, they established a fortified base in Dublin, which gradually developed into an important centre of trade and craftsmanship. Other Viking settlements grew into towns such as Waterford and Wexford.
Trade and life alongside one another also brought Irish and Scandinavian cultures together. Local metalworkers adopted Nordic decorative elements and developed them in their own work. This brooch draws inspiration from early medieval Ireland, where native traditions met Scandinavian influences. It is a historically inspired piece rather than a documented replica of a specific find.