The Bright Side: Smiling figurine thought to be first 'portrait' of a Viking

Denmark's National Museum has unveiled what it calls the first true "portrait" of a Viking. The remarkably detailed 10th-century figurine challenges popular notions of the Norse as wild, unkempt warriors, instead revealing a figure of refinement and style – and with a smile.

Aug 28, 2025 - 00:11
The Bright Side: Smiling figurine thought to be first 'portrait' of a Viking
Denmark's National Museum has unveiled what it calls the first true "portrait" of a Viking. The remarkably detailed 10th-century figurine challenges popular notions of the Norse as wild, unkempt warriors, instead revealing a figure of refinement and style – and with a smile.