Our Numinous Nature VIKING METALWORK: DWARVES, BOG IRON & THOR'S HAMMER | Blacksmith | Philip Lufolk
Nov 27, 2023
In this enlightening discussion, Philip Lufolk, a skilled blacksmith from Storvik, Sweden, dives into the fascinating world of Viking craftsmanship and mythology. He explores the intricate process of forging historical artifacts from bog iron, such as Thor's hammer and the völva staff. Philip shares captivating tales of dwarves as master smiths and the mythological significance of these creations. He also reflects on ancient rituals, burial practices, and the cultural heritage embedded in Sweden's landscape, connecting the past with the present.
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Iron Valued Over Silver
- Iron was more valued than silver in the early Iron Age because it was rare and very useful.
- High status people often exclusively used iron items due to the metal's cost and importance.
Bog Iron Harvesting Process
- Bog iron was harvested from soil and water, often from lake bottoms during winter by removing soil.
- Smelting required drying the material and combining it with charcoal in a furnace to produce iron lumps.
Viking Furnaces Were Portable
- Viking furnaces were simple clay structures, often built for single use and moved to ore locations.
- Each smelting produced small iron quantities, with one to two kilos per burn before the furnace was destroyed.
