Viking Belt Buckle Birka (Grave 750) – Solid Brass - Outlet

Viking Belt Buckle Birka (Grave 750) – Solid Brass

Historical Insight: The Borre Style and Birka's Wealth

The original find dates back to the 9th–10th century, a time when Vikings dominated the northern seas. Birka was the beating heart of trade, where goods from the East and West met. The Borre style decorating this buckle is characterized by geometric patterns and intertwined animal motifs (often interpreted as stylized horses or mythical beasts) gripping each other with their claws. By wearing this buckle, you align yourself with an elite that valued ornamentation and symbolism.

Specifications

Assembly Guide: Be Your Own Craftsman

This buckle is not sewn onto the belt but riveted, which is a historically accurate and very strong method of attachment. Here is how to do it:

1. Prepare a leather strap 4–4.5 cm wide. The end where the buckle attaches must be tapered (cut) to a width of approx. 30 mm to fit into the buckle's hinge.
2. Punch holes in the leather corresponding to the spacing of the four pins on the back of the buckle plate.
3. Push the pins through the leather.
4. You will now need brass washers (not included; can be made from scrap metal or purchased separately). Place them over the pins.
5. Using wire cutters, trim the pins so they protrude only about 2 mm (approx. 0.08 in) above the washer.
6. Carefully peen the ends of the pins into a mushroom shape using a ball-peen hammer. This secures the connection. We recommend placing the front of the buckle on a thick piece of leather to avoid damaging the relief decoration while hammering.

Brass Care

Brass is a beautiful material that naturally oxidizes and darkens over time. If you want to maintain a high shine, simply polish the buckle occasionally with a metal polishing compound (e.g., Brasso). However, if you prefer a "battle-worn" look, let the patina develop—it adds depth and a historic character to the piece.