Anglo-Scandinavian Key (LEIC-76C229)

A copper-alloy key found near Peckleton, Leicestershire

Slide keys such as this example are generally known as ‘Viking keys’ due to similarities in shape with excavated examples. However, its T-shaped projections at the base have no identified parallels but the design could possibly show Anglo-Scandinavian influence. Keys were not only practical items but also symbols of status. Women often carried the keys to the family’s chests of valuables. They are also often buried with keys, representing their authority in the household. See also the blog post on keys in the Viking Age.

Object Type

Key (locking)

Date

circa 900 — 1100

Ascribed Culture

Original/Reproduction

Original

Material

Collection

Viking Objects

Current Location

Private Ownership

Keywords

Anglo-Scandinavian, copper_alloy, household, key, Leicestershire, Portable_Antiquities_Scheme, women

Further information

You can see the original at Private Ownership.

Acknowledgements

(c) Portable Antiquities Scheme, CC BY-SA 2.0

References

Portable Antiquities Scheme