The Swastika, the Earliest Known Symbol, and Its Migration / With Observations on the Migration of Certain Industries in Prehistoric Times

by Thomas Wilson

Fig. 207.
BRONZE BROOCH
WITH SWASTIKAS.
Tetraskelions (right and left),
triskelion (left). Scandinavia.

Fig. 208.
PLACQUE FOR CEINTURE, WITH BUCKLE.
Two ogee Swastikas (tetraskelions).

In Scandinavia more than in other countries the Swastika took the form of a rectangular body with arms projecting from each corner and bending in a spiral form, sometimes to the right, sometimes to the left. These are found more frequently on fibulæ or brooches and on swords and scabbards. In [fig. 208] is shown a placque for a ceinture or belt, with a buckle to receive the thong. It contains two ogee Swastikas (tetraskelions). In this and [fig. 207] the border and accessory decoration consist largely of ogee curves, which, here represented separate, would, if placed together as a cross, form the same style of Swastika as those mentioned. Figs. [209] and [210] show sword scabbards, with Swastikas turned both ways. [Fig. 211] shows two triskelions. [Fig. 212] represents a gold brooch from a grave at Fyen, reported by Worsaae and figured by Waring.[210] The brooch with ogee Swastika bears internal evidence of Scandinavian workmanship. There are other Swastikas of the same general form and style in distant localities, and this specimen serves to emphasize the extent of possible communication between distant peoples in prehistoric times. [Fig. 213] represents a piece of horse-gear of bronze, silver plated and ornamented with Swastikas. Two of these are normal, the ends bent at right angles to the left, while the other is fancifully made, the only specimen yet found of that pattern.[211] It is not seen that these fanciful additions serve any purpose other than decoration. They do not appear to have changed the symbolic meaning of the Swastika. [Fig. 214] represents a sword scabbard belonging to the Vimose find, with a normal Swastika. Ludwig Müller reproduces a Swastika cross from a runic stone in Sweden. In an ancient church in Denmark, the baptismal font is decorated with Swastikas, showing its use in early Christian times. (See [p. 878] for continuation of Swastika on Scandinavian or Danish gold bracteates.)

Fig. 209. SCANDINAVIAN SWORD SCABBARD. Two ogee Swastikas (tetraskelions), right and left.		Fig. 210. SCANDINAVIAN SWORD SCABBARD. Ogee Swastika.		Fig. 211. SCANDINAVIAN SWORD SCABBARD. Two triskelions, right and left.