3S^ 



HORSE-SHOES AND HORSE-SHOEING. 



We have selected two representations of the Anglo- 

 Saxon Vulcan from ancient manuscripts in the Cottonian 

 library. The first (fig. 139) represents this worthy working 

 at an anvil, which, it is proper to note, has no beak or horn. 

 The hammer he wields is not unlike those in use at the 

 present day. In the compartment adjoining him, but 



fig. 139 



fig. 140 



which is not shown here, was a harper, a combination 

 that reminds us of the Welsh king's court, or the mul- 

 tiple functions assumed by some of the Anglo-Saxon 

 priests, who were musicians, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, and 

 other handicraftsmen combined. The second figure 

 (fig. 140) shows the ' isern-smithas ' at work in a less 

 ostentatious manner, and at a hearth like those of our own 

 time. His apron is of the most meagre dimensions, and 

 his naked legs must often have been tickled by the burning 

 sparks. His hammer is curious, and may have been used 

 in battering the heads of enemies as well as bars of iron ; 

 for, according to Fabricius, ' the ancient Saxons had their 

 shields- suspended by chains, their horsemen used long 

 iron sledge-hammers, and their armour was heavy.' Behind 



