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Drawing of Viking gold armlet from Ireland, c. 1812-13 (pen, ink & wash on paper)
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Drawing of Viking gold armlet from Ireland, c. 1812-13 (pen, ink & wash on paper)
1765208 Drawing of Viking gold armlet from Ireland, c.1812-13 (pen, ink & wash on paper) by Smirke, Richard (1778-1815); 24x31 cm; Society of Antiquaries of London, UK; (add.info.: In 1802 two Viking hoards of gold and silver were found on Hare Island in the River Shannon in Ireland. One of the hoards consisted of two armrings of gold, dated to the late ninth to the early tenth centuries. The hoards came into the possession of the silversmiths Rundel and Bridge in London, who exhibited them to the Society on 26 November 1812. One of the Societys Fellows, Francis Dounce, urged the Society to commission drawings of the hoard before it was melted down for bullion. These drawings, showing several view of one of the gold arm rings, were made by the Societys draughtsman Richard Smirke, and published in Vetusta Monumenta in 1819. All pieces from the hoard are presumed to have been destroyed.)
Media ID 25190982
© Bridgeman Images
Antiquarian Antiquary Archaeologist Armlet Bracelet Early Medieval Hoard Lost River Shannon Silversmiths Viking Hare Island
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This print showcases a detailed drawing of a Viking gold armlet from Ireland, created by Richard Smirke in 1812-13. The armlet was part of a remarkable discovery made in 1802 on Hare Island in the River Shannon, where two Viking hoards containing gold and silver were unearthed. One of these hoards included two exquisite armrings made of gold, believed to date back to the late ninth or early tenth centuries. The precious artifacts eventually came into the possession of London-based silversmiths Rundel and Bridge, who exhibited them to the Society of Antiquaries on November 26,1812. Recognizing their historical significance, Francis Dounce urged the society to commission drawings before melting down the hoard for bullion. Richard Smirke, an accomplished draughtsman affiliated with the society, meticulously captured several views of one of these magnificent gold arm rings. Published in Vetusta Monumenta in 1819, Smirke's drawings serve as invaluable records since all pieces from this extraordinary hoard are presumed lost or destroyed over time. This image not only highlights the exceptional craftsmanship and intricate design characteristic of Viking metalwork but also sheds light on Ireland's rich archaeological heritage during its early medieval period. Through this photograph print by Bridgeman Images, viewers can appreciate both the beauty and historical significance encapsulated within this ancient Irish artifact—a testament to our enduring fascination with antiquities and our desire to preserve glimpses into our past for future generations.
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