Metal: sterling silver (925)
Weight: approx. 10 g (0,35 oz)
The raven banner (Old Norse: hrafnsmerki; Middle English: hravenlandeye) was a flag, possibly totemic in nature, flown by various Viking chieftains and other Scandinavian rulers during the 9th, 10th and 11th centuries. The flag, as depicted in Norse artwork, was roughly triangular, with a rounded outside edge on which there hung a series of tabs or tassels. It bore a resemblance to ornately carved "weather-vanes" used aboard Viking longships.
Scholars conjecture that the raven flag was a symbol of Odin, who was often depicted accompanied by two ravens named Huginn and Muninn. Its intent may have been to strike fear in one's enemies by invoking the power of Odin.
In Scandinavian mythology, Icelandic sagas and Icelandic folklore the raven is usually depicted as a wise, all-knowing messenger and often as a bird of fortune, protector and helper. Interestingly, this notion is not entirely unfounded, since crows are considered among the most intelligent animals alive today (about as intelligent as a small child). They have considerable intelligence for problem solving and apparently can plan for the future.
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