Craft, Display, and Trade

Abstract

Abstract This chapter examines craftworking in early medieval Wales before discussing the role of artefacts in elite display together with the changing pattern of trade and exchange, increasing use of silver bullion, and less clearly coin, as currency, and places where such interactions took place. Discussion of artefacts includes management of resources, such as timber, and exploitation of materials, such as iron, alongside tools and technology. Some crafts, for example textile production, were domestic and focused on women. Others, such as metalworking, were dependent on patronage with skills passed down the generations. Elite assemblages indicate how power and wealth were displayed and the impact of gift-giving. Penannular brooches likely projected group identities, whilst weapons emphasize martial display in a male-dominated society. Imported pottery and drinking horns demonstrate the significance of feasting and hospitality. Initially, long-distance trade was focused on the Atlantic seaways, but western Britain lay outside burgeoning developments in North Sea and cross-Channel trade during the long eighth century. The Viking advent brought new opportunities for international trade focused along the north coast between Dublin and Chester, and later along the south to Bristol. This is evidenced through increased finds of silver bullion, but, despite the Hywel Dda penny, there is little evidence for widespread use of coin as currency. Although, the early medieval economy followed a similar trajectory to other parts of Britain and Ireland, in Wales, a land without towns, it remained largely undeveloped despite mineral wealth and agricultural surpluses successfully exploited by the Romans.