The French historian, the monk at the St. Omér monastery in Flanders, in about 1040 wrote a detailed description of Viking ships, focusing on their elaborate decoration and the fleet's formation. His account mentions that the Viking chieftains' ships were distinguished by the design of the bow, including gold figures of lions, wind-vanes of birds at the top of the mast, drakes spewing fire, bulls and dolphins in bronze, and human beings in silver and gold. The ships' sides were painted in vibrant colors and adorned with wood carvings, particularly the king's vessel, which was the most intricately decorated. This passage serves as valuable evidence of the Vikings' investment in ship artistry as a reflection of power, wealth, and rank. The choice of metal animal motifs and the intricate designs on prominent vessels reveal how these ships were not only functional but also designed to display status and intimidate.
The French historian, the monk at the St. Omér ,monastery in Flanders, in about 1040 wrote a detailed description of Viking ships focusing on their elaborate decoration and the fleet's formation. His account mentions that the Viking chieftains' ships were distinguished by the design of the bow, including gold figures of lions, wind-vanes of birds at the top of the mast, drakes spewing fire, bulls and dolphins in bronze, and human beings in silver and gold. The ships' sides were painted in vibrant colors and adorned with wood carvings, particularly the king's vessel, which was the most intricately decorated. This passage serves as valuable evidence of the Vikings' investment in ship artistry as a reflection of power, wealth, and rank. The choice of metal animal motifs and the intricate designs on prominent vessels reveal how these ships were not only functional but also designed to display status and intimidate.