Design from famous Urnes Stave Church!
Metal: sterling silver (925)
Weight: approx. 19 g (0,67 oz)
Width: 0,6 in. (15 mm)
The Urnes style emerged during the late Viking Age in the 11th century and is named after the wooden stave church of Urnes in Norway. It represents a remarkable phase of Viking art, characterized by intricate interlaced patterns, stylized animal motifs, and sinuous, serpentine forms.
Derived from earlier Scandinavian art styles like the Oseberg and Borre styles, the Urnes style exhibits a heightened level of sophistication. Its designs fuse abstract geometric patterns with highly stylized depictions of animals, including birds, snakes, horses, wolves, and dragons. These creatures intertwine and interlock, forming elaborate knotwork patterns that exude a sense of movement and fluidity.
The hallmark of the Urnes style lies in its captivating interlaced patterns, resembling flowing ribbons. The symmetrical arrangement of motifs showcases meticulous craftsmanship as the intricate elements seamlessly merge, creating an enchanting visual effect.
Notably, the Urnes style incorporates "gripping beasts," animal figures that appear to bite or grasp their own bodies or others. This element infuses the artwork with an energetic and dramatic quality, enhancing the overall composition.
Wooden objects, such as runestones, portals, and panels of stave churches, served as the primary canvas for the Urnes style. These objects were exquisitely carved, featuring ornamental and narrative designs inspired by Norse mythology, Christian iconography, and historical events.
The Urnes style bridges the Viking Age and the medieval era, reflecting a blend of Norse pagan and Christian influences. Its intricate and refined aesthetics left an indelible mark on subsequent Scandinavian art movements, as well as on the broader artistic sphere, including the Art Nouveau movement.
Today, the Urnes style continues to be revered for its beauty, complexity, and historical significance. It stands as a testament to the exceptional artistic skills and craftsmanship of the Viking Age, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Scandinavian people.
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