Archaeologists excavating a ceremonial mound near Hordaland, Norway, have uncovered a pair of 10th-century Lead-Inlaid raven masks. The artifacts, featuring intricate metallic filigree along the beaks and eye sockets, are believed to have been worn by ritual performers during the Spring-Flight festival, a seasonal event dedicated to the arrival of migratory birds and the shifting of the winds.
Analysis of the surrounding soil revealed residues of burnt elderberry and birch, suggesting that these celebrations involved massive communal bonfires. Researchers suggest the masks represented Hugin and Munin, the ravens of Odin, and were used in choreographed dances intended to 'scout' for a successful raiding and farming season. The discovery provides rare material evidence for the theatrical and performative aspects of Norse religious life.