[MR] History Blog: Warrior Boat Graves with Down Beds

[Garth Groff and Sally Sanford]

Noble Friends,

Yesterday's History Blog had a brief story about the discovery of "feather
beds" in two boat graves in Valsgarde, Sweden. The graves' occupants had
been laid out on down bedding, calling forth fanciful images of big burly
pre-Viking warriors snuggling up in their duvets to catch their favorite
shows. The Blog goes on to discuss extensive and valuable trade in feathers
during the middle ages, particularly in the down from eider ducks, but also
from many other birds.

Enjoy the fascinating story at http://www.thehistoryblog.com/archives/61038
. The story includes a video link to a brief film of the grave goods,
including great views of a 7th century helm.

More on the feathers and their significance is found at
https://norwegianscitechnews.com/2021/03/warriors-down-bedding-could-ease-journey-to-realm-of-the-dead/


Yours Aye,


Lord Mungo Napier, Laird of Mallard Lodge  🦆