11th- and 12th-Century Exhibits
11th- and 12th-Century Exhibits
The surviving objects from the early centuries of Christianity in Iceland are similar in nature to those from the centuries before. Artefacts of non-organic materials are unearthed during archaeological excavations, but some objects have also survived without having been hidden in the earth.
The most remarkable objects are wooden panels, found in the structure of turf farmhouses in the 20th century. Thanks to Icelandic conservatism in construction methods, together with the constant shortage of timber, we now have exquisite woodcarvings from a 12th-century cathedral, unparalleled in the world.
Iceland’s oldest ecclesiastical objects have been dated to the 12th century. They survived within the church until they came to be stored in museums. As before, everyday objects have rarely survived. The surviving objects of that time give an impression of splendour and artistry, while mundane goods were not preserved with such care.