This armlet, found in the Isle of Man in 1870, represents an interesting facet of high-end Nordic culture.¹ Made out of silver, it is immediately elevated above just a run-of-the-mill everyday object. Instead, it’s clear that it was used to establish status. Additionally, the location of the find suggests a dual purpose to this armlet and material like it. It’s possible that high-status items such as this could’ve been used to secure fealty in foreign lands, making settlement for the Norse people easier. Made in the 10th century, this armlet consists of a rolled silver band with beaded, twisted wire inserted as decoration. This is a common motif among Nordic armlets, although the quality of the workmanship distinguishes this particular one as high-status. Armlets were often used to show power and wealth, as those who had more extravagant, fancy silver or gold armlets would be seen as the social elites. Additionally, it is possible that high-status material like armlets would be used by Norse leaders to curry favor among local elites. By offering high-status items, the Earl would’ve cemented his position as the de facto ruler of the Isle of Man, making it easier for other Norsemen to come settle and to use the island as a base form which to raid Ireland and England.² In conclusion, this armlet is interesting in two key ways. First, it fits into multiple paradigms of Norse culture, particularly the stylistic and functional elements. Additionally, it provides some possible insight into how the Norwegian rulers of the Isle of Man created and maintained longstanding favor among the local population, incentivizing further Norse settlement. Because of these features, this silver armlet is a very interesting piece of material Norse culture.

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