The Odin figurine and related artifacts provide intriguing insights into the representations of Odin, the Norse god, during the 6th to 7th centuries. One significant piece of evidence for identifying Odin comes from the discovery of four cast bronze stamps in Torslund in 1870. These stamps depict a dancing naked warrior carrying a helmet with horns ending in two birds of prey. Recent examinations of these stamps have revealed that the original representation had two eyes, but one was intentionally removed during the fabrication process.
A similar motif can be found on the helmet of Sutton Hoo, although the dancing warriors on that helmet are dressed differently from the figures on the helmet plates found in Sweden at Walsgarde 7 and 8.
Another depiction of this motif can be seen on the buckle from Finglesham, which dates back to the 6th century and comes from an early Anglo-Saxon burial ground. However, in this representation, the dancer is depicted as nude.
A fourth representation of this motif can be observed on the Eckhammer pendant from Kungsengen in Uppland, Sweden, which is now housed in the Swedish National Museum of History. Additionally, a fifth version of this motif, with slight variations from the Birka and Uppokra examples, was found in Staraya Ladoga, Russia, dating to the 8th century.
Of particular interest is the amulet discovered on Gotland, measuring approximately 4 cm and crafted from an alloy of silver and bronze. This amulet, tentatively dated to the period between the 6th and 7th centuries, features holes drilled in the sides, suggesting its use as an amulet. The collection of these artifacts provides valuable evidence for the presence and depictions of Odin during this historical period.
