Viking Designs (Dover Pictorial Archive)

The legendary Vikings of Scandinavia were among the most dynamic peoples of Europe. Throughout the Viking age (c. A.D. 800–100 ), the vibrancy and aggressive energy of this culture found expression in the bold, often fantastic designs of its art. The royalty-free collection contains over 175 of these designs, adapted from authentic images originating in the metalwork, woodwork, textiles, stone and bone carvings, and ceramics of the Viking homelands of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, as well as the lands they colonized: Iceland, northern Scotland, the Isle of Man, Ireland, and others. Motifs include sinuously intertwining patterns reminiscent of Celtic art, real and mythological animals, dragon-slaying heroes on horseback, "gripping beasts," and many more, all exuding a sense of power and confidence. Whether you're an artist, illustrator or craftsperson, or simply an admirer of dramatic, eye-catching design, this convenient, inexpensive volume will provide a handy source of inspiration, as well as striking embellishment for a host of graphic projects.