Learnings: The Figurehead

Figureheads, as seen here, were often sculpted into wild animals or monsters. They were not just decorations; they were intended to frighten the protective spirits, or , of hostile territories.
When the Vikings wanted to ensure a successful military or commercial expedition, they showed the ship's figurehead as they drew near the shore to intimidate the landvættir of their rivals and enemies.
When they were visiting a friendly territory, the Vikings did not want to offend or frighten the local spirits. On these occasions, they would remove the figurehead from the prow for a less threatening arrival.
Category:Discovery Tour: Viking Age