The tools used in Anglo-Saxon England where
much like those found elsewhere in Europe at that time. They have
been found in graves and buried tool-hoards. Others seem to be
accidental losses or to have been discarded due to wear or damage.
Most are surprisingly like those in use today.
Many excavated tools are chunks of rust which provide little visual
information, so the pictures used here are of reconstructions
that draw on archaeological evidence. Some are accurate reproductions
of specific tools and others are ‘generic reproductions’
in which the general style of the tool is captured. The author
looks at the design and construction of the tools and their social
The reconstructions show the tools as they may have originally
looked. Because of their likeness to the originals, the reconstructions
can be put to practical use and insights gained into their efficiency,
durability and ease of use. This elevates the artefacts from rusty
museum exhibits into functional tools that allow the user to experience
the problems and pleasures of Anglo-Saxons craftsmen.
The tools included here were used for working with wood, leather,
bone, horn, metals, pottery and textiles. They were used in farming,
digging and building.
80 colour & 5 black & white illustrations.
TO SUBJECT LIST