The Dublin Archaelogical Museum
If I could go back to Dublin and spend one entire day in a place, it would be at the Dublin Archaelogical Museum. This was a prime research spot for my books because I could go and see the swords used in the 12th century. I could see the cups and bowls they used, inspect the jewelry worn by the women, and see the mummified remains of a Viking. It was truly amazing.
In the book I just finished, Her Irish Lover, my hero’s hands were crushed by the enemy and the heroine helps him heal until he can wield a sword again. One critical bit of information I needed to know was how large the swords were and whether they were one-handed swords or two-handed swords, like a Scottish claymore. I think it’s pretty evident from the examples here, that most were one-handed swords. The hilts were inlaid with ivory and wood. They were designed for cutting with the edge, not stabbing with the point.
Shields were also used in battle, and here shown below, on the right side of the photograph, is an example of the type of metalworking you might see upon a wooden shield.
Another item I found interesting was the drinking vessels. 
Here, on the left are glazed wine jugs.
In this photograph(to the right side next to the metal bowls are wooden drinking vessels, made from alder and yew woods. These were designed for groups, and would be passed around the table to the guests. In the same photograph on the top left, you’ll see glass beakers. Yes, glass. Pretty amazing, I think.
The last photograph I want to share today is of the lamps used inside the homes. These small lamps were made of stone filled with oil and had wicks. They could be burned at night to illuminate the huts. The metal “lamps” were used to hold more expensive candles. They carved the lamps in different shapes such as a lion or a woman. In the same photograph at the bottom are examples of iron knives. They were frequently used at meals, spoons being used less often. Forks did not come into being until the end of the medieval period.
If you could see any artifact from the medieval period, which would you enjoy seeing most?
Michelle posted in Ireland Tales @ 7:46 am | Viewed 4408 times
beth Says:
We stumbled across this museum by accident (because everything I had on my list was closed - must’ve been Sunday?) and loved it! It’s fascinating, researching books or not.
Glad you found, and enjoyed, it!
mary beth Says:
WOW. This is just amazing. How cool to think that people actually used these items.
Bonnie Ferguson Says:
That museum sounds amazing
Karen Says:
How cool! Thanks for sharing these fascinating pictures. What a way to research!!!
Olga Says:
Michelle, thanks for sharing! And it looks like you’re doing a lot of research; it must be fascinating to see with your eyes the items people used centuries ago.
Tori Lennox Says:
If you could see any artifact from the medieval period, which would you enjoy seeing most?
Illuminated manuscripts. The Book of Kells. That sort of thing.
jaq Says:
Amazing stuff, Michelle! Thanks for sharing. This type of research must be awesome when you’re plotting/writing. Thanks for sharing.
Melissa Says:
Wow. I’d love to see that place.
Nicole Reising Says:
Michelle - I absolutely love how you share all these tid bits! These posts on what you saw and learned… I can honestly say I wasn’t a huge fan of history in school but as an adult I have loved it! Thanks!
Cole