The wagon

The wagon from the Oseberg burial is the only one of its kind in Norway dating from the Viking Age. It was already old when it was placed in the grave, and probably made before the year 800.

The wagon has wheel shafts that support a Y-shaped frame made of beech. This supports a pair of trestles that carry the detachable wagon "tub". The frame, made of oak, is built of horizontal planks that are riveted together. The wagon has two shafts of ash that are attached to a short iron chain. The wagon was probably drawn by two horses, one on each side of the shafts.

The trestles that support the frame of the wagon terminate in carved male heads. No two heads are alike. The wagon is richly decorated. Some of the carvings are typical of Viking-style animal ornamentation, while others are of a different type. On one of the long sides there is a scene depicting a horseman, a dog, and a man and woman on foot. On the front of the frame there is a we see a man lying on his back, being attacked by serpents.

In the Viking Age, there were probably few roads suitable for driving wagons. Thus this wagon is generally thought to be a ceremonial object for use in religious processions. Similar wagons have been found in Denmark and northern Germany. With few exceptions, these wagons have been buried in the graves of wealthy women.

Text based on:
A. W. Brøgger, H. Schetelig: Osebergfundet. Published by the Norwegian State in 1917
Arne Emil Christensen: Kongsgårdens håndtverkere,  Osebergdronningens grav, vår arkeologiske nasjonalskatt i nytt lys. 1992 
Fører for Vikingskipshuset. 1984
Anne Stine Ingstad: Osebergdronningen hvem var hun,
Osebergdronningens grav, vår arkeologiske nasjonalskatt i nytt lys. 1992