Archaeologists have uncovered a remarkable ᴀssortment of medieval artifacts, notably a collection of Viking combs, during extensive excavations in Ipswich, Suffolk, England.

One of the combs found in Ipswich, England. Credit: Suffolk County Council

The excavations, spanning from 1974 to 1994, yielded a treasure trove of 1,341 bone and antler objects, along with 2,400 fragments of waste

The recently published book, ‘An Early Medieval Craft: Antler and Bone Working From Ipswich Excavations 1974-1994,’ authored by Ian Riddler, Nicola Trzaska-Nartowski, and Shona Hatton, illuminates Ipswich’s pivotal role as a hub of craftsmanship, positioning it at the center of a burgeoning early medieval world. Riddler and Trzaska-Nartowski emphasized the European outlook of the book, underscoring Ipswich’s rich connections with regions such as northern France, Frisia, and southern Scandinavia.

The collection, described as “extraordinary and unique” in the UK, showcases a diverse array of artifacts, including over 500 items related to textile manufacturing, such as spindle whorls and needles. Additionally, the excavation yielded 60 dress pins, elaborately adorned strap-ends, flutes, gaming pieces, spoons, a whalebone fishing float, and a sword grip among other objects.

Of particular note are the 440 combs discovered, with 13 of them traced back to Scandinavian origins, dating to the late 9th century. These Viking combs, crafted during the Viking Age, provide crucial evidence of Scandinavian presence in Ipswich during that period.

According to Riddler, these combs likely have strong ties to Hedeby, an important site located in present-day Germany but formerly part of Denmark, further illuminating the intricate networks of trade and exchange during the Viking era.

“The term ‘Viking’ is a tricky one because its origins and precise meaning are a little uncertain,” Riddler remarked. He emphasized the multifaceted roles of Scandinavians during that time, not solely limited to raiding but also encompᴀssing trade and settlement.

A new book detailing the Ipswich discoveries was published by the Suffolk County Council Archaeological Service in partnership with Historic England. Credit: Suffolk County Council

The port of Ipswich, founded in the 7th century following the decline of the Roman Empire, flourished as a key trading settlement, facilitating exchanges between Britain and continental Europe. Its strategic location made it susceptible to Viking conquest, with the town falling under Viking rule around CE 869.

Melanie Vigo di Gallidoro, Suffolk County Council’s deputy cabinet member for protected landscapes and archaeology, noted that the extensive excavations over two decades enabled researchers to construct a comprehensive narrative of Ipswich’s medieval past.

Will Fletcher, East of England development advice team leader at Historic England said it was a “fascinating insight into Ipswich’s medieval history… and its reach across the North Sea”.