Varafeldur

When you imagine a Viking king, what do you see? Is it a mighty sword? A jewelled torc? Or perhaps a mighty, shaggy cloak blowing in the wind, bringing to mind legends of bear-skinned warriors?

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That heavy cloak is called a varafledur, and is woven from loose locks of wool, giving it an impressive, voluminous look. Used by seafaring Vikings from the 9th Century, they provided natural insulation and waterproofing due to the lanolin in the locks.

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These cloaks are described in historic law books, mentioned in sagas, depicted in tapestries, and a Viking king even took his name from one. Remnants have been found in Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. It is clear that these remarkable pieces of craft were an important part of Viking life, as a unit of trade, a defence against the elements, and a mark of status.​

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As a modern maker of varafeldurs using historic methods and tools, I've been on a journey to improve my understanding of these amazing textiles by transforming rare archaeological records of fabric fragments, preserved over centuries, into living, tactile objects.​

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Through this international touring exhibition, I hope to take you on this journey with me, sharing the exciting history of these Viking cloaks, and offering a chance to see, feel, and even wear five amazing replica varafeldurs, made using archaeological reports of surviving historical remnants.

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These cloaks will be based on remnants found in Iceland, Norway, Scotland and Man, demonstrating the variety and versatility of the garment. The exhibition will include excerpts from historical texts and reports from archaeological digs, shedding light on how the varafeldur became such an ubiquitous symbol.​

 

Featuring a replica Bronze Age warp-weighted loom, historical spinning tools, and the botanicals used to make natural dye, the exhibition also explores the journey of the varafeldur's creation: from raw fleece to a kingly cloak.

 

Are you interested in hosting the Varafeldur exhibition in your museum, gallery or venue? Contact us to find out more!​​