fældeikning

Fældeikning is a traditional Norse method of inscribing runes, often used for magical, funerary, or memorial purposes. The term originates from Old Norse, where "fældeikning" (or similar variants) pertains to the act of erecting or inscribing runestones. This practice was prevalent during the Viking Age and the early medieval period in Scandinavia.

The primary purpose of fældeikning was to commemorate the deceased or significant events, serving both as memorials and as a means of asserting territorial or social status. Runestones inscribed through fældeikning typically feature runic inscriptions accompanied by decorative carvings. These markings often include names, titles, and messages that highlight inheritance, gratitude, or the accomplishments of the individual(s) involved.

The process of fældeikning involved selecting suitable stone material, often a large boulder or dedicated monolith, which was then carefully carved with runes using iron tools. The inscriptions followed specific stylistic conventions and patterns, with regional variations evident across different Scandinavian regions.

Today, surviving fældeikning runestones offer vital insights into Norse society, language, and beliefs. They are considered valuable historical artifacts, many of which are preserved in museums and archaeological sites across Scandinavia. The study of fældeikning contributes significantly to our understanding of Viking Age culture, practices of memorialization, and the use of runes in everyday life.