Originally shared by Daniele Di Rubbo
Goðar’s arm-rings
“Arm-rings were a popular decorative item, displaying wealth and status. The dragon head seems also to have been a popular image and has become associated with the prows of Viking ships, although no surviving examples have been found.”
“Temples and holy sites were important to trade and diplomacy as well as spiritual matters. Each holy place was required by law to have a silver arm-ring that was worn by the local chieftain, or Godi. The ring was used for the swearing of oaths for all manner of reasons, not least to formalize trade bargains. The Godi occupied a position somewhere between priests and nobles or chiefs, providing both religious and political leadership. They led the worship of the gods and appointed officials as well as making laws.”
(Martin J. Dougherty, Vikings: A History of the Norse People, Amber Books, London, 2014, par. 8.132-4.)