Chapter 11 c. The sword is

A sword from the early 11th century, rare decoration survived the good condition found in Montevert, Netherlands, and has entered the permanent collection of Rijksmuseum van Oudheden in Leiden.

Linschoten sword is 1 meter (3.3 feet), 17 cm (6.7 inches) wide and weighs 840 grams (1.85 lbs). It is double-edged and has a Brazilian nut-shaped saddle powder, a sword made by Frankish Smiths between 1050 and 1150.

It was discovered during the construction of new literature on the Korte Linschoten River on March 1, 2024. The mechanical excavator must replace the two inlets more deeply in this section, where sharp metal grows in it as the bucket rises with the replenishment of the river.

The contractor recognized it might be archaeological material and reported it to Montford municipal officials who recruited archaeologists from the ODRU (Utrecht Region Arimoning Service) to begin immediate treatment to prevent the sword from deteriorating rapidly after exposure to oxygen.

In the process, researchers discovered more details about the sword. X-rays indicate that there are still remains of wood and leather on the handle, probably from the original handle. The sword is one meter long but weighs only 900 grams, which seems to be customized for the owner. “It’s very lightweight, which shows that it could be a good sword and easy to handle,” Valentijn said.

This example rarely has two blades with two inlays on either side of the blade under the slat (a different mosaic symbol from the sword). On one side, arranged in thin bronze bars in the sun wheel, an ancient symbol of a circle containing the cross. On the other side, five squares are linked to each other within a circle. This is a continuous or endless knot symbol, symbolizing unbreakable friendship and loyalty and is used as amulet for Viking Age (800-1100 AD). There are three parallel bronze stripes on both sides of the circle.

The city of Montford has half the sword. Landgoed Linschoten owns the land, so both parties have ownership of 50-50 swords. They donated it to Rijksmuseum van Oudheden to ensure it is an expert in long-term protection and will be seen by the public.