Copy of Late Vendel Period Tortoise brooches from Ireland approximately 850-900, made of solid bronze. The originals of these brooches are in the Dublin Museum. Officially classified as Berdal, P 11, Ribe 5. Examples of this style have also been found in Norway, Sweden, and as molds found at Ribe Denmark (Petersen, 1928), (Jansson, 1985). Photo of the original brooches kept in the Dublin Museum collection. 

Over time tortoise brooches increased in design complexity. These Ribe 5 brooches are transitional from Vendel to Viking Age brooch embellishment. Tortoise brooches were worn on women's apron dresses as an expression of status. The originals of these brooches are in the Dublin Museum. Officially called Berdal Ribe Type 5, examples of this style have also been found in Norway, Sweden and named based on broken brooch molds found at Ribe Denmark. The originals are a pair of brooches kept in the Dublin collection. 

The pin is stainless steel designed for use in modern tighter weave fabrics than those worn during the Viking Age. All brooches are cast using the same formula of bronze as the originals.

Size: 3 1/8" x 2 1/8" or 77 mm x 53 mm

Solid Sterling Silver