needle box birka grave 515 Helmen Oudheid often almost completely consisted of

often almost completely consisted of decorative helmet plates

The cape section can be worn over the shoulders or solely over the back

In England this weapon was especially popular between 1500 and 1700

It has a leather inlay and a chin strap and is suitable for a head circumference op to 62 cm

needle box birka grave 515 Helmen Oudheid often almost completely consisted ofThis needle box is a replica of a 9th 10th century original excavated in grave 515 in the Viking town of Birka and in Gotland. Needles were much more expensive than nowadays, therefore they were kept safe very well. This needle box was fastened tot he belt with a strap so the needle was always near to use quickly. But this beautiful needle box also had a decorative function as well, being visibly worn on the belt.