Invisible Inscription   

This fragment of a shield boss bears a runic inscription on the side not visible here. When mounted, it was therefore hidden. Such “invisible” inscriptions are not uncommon. They are frequently found on amulets, jewelry, or even runestones. Apparently, some runes were not intended to be read by humans. They may have been meant to fulfill a magical function.   

Location: Thorsberg bog   

Material: Copper alloy 

Not Bad   

This sword scabbard fitting bears a runic inscription on both sides. On the side not visible here, the concept rune o for “othala,” meaning “inheritance,” is inscribed, along with the male name “Wulthuthewar.” On this side, the inscription reads “niwajemarir,” which can best be translated as “the not-so-badly famous one.” This double negative serves here as a rhetorical device to emphasize the statement. Taken together, both inscriptions can be understood to mean “Wulthuthewar is exceedingly glorious.”    

Location: Thorsberg bog 

Material: Copper alloy