Shield Maidens Inspiring Valkyries

This week's inktober52 prompt was shield. The obvious feminist subject is the Viking shield maiden.

Original art, based on Viking age shield maiden figurine. Available on greeting cards and other merch through RedBubble, Fine Art America, or via shop link above.

The Valkyries of Viking mythology are thought to be based on female Viking warriors, also known as shield maidens. Archaeological evidence of such warriors has been found, including this figurine and, most notably, the Birka warrior, a woman buried with two shields, two horses, and an arsenal of weaponry. Additionally, there are written accounts of Viking women fighting alongside men in battle, as well as leading armies on their own.

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Echoing Multiverse

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