Medieval Jesus Figurine Unearthed by Metal Detectorist in Norway
ÅNDALSNES, Norway — In a remarkable discovery that bridges nearly a millennium, a metal detector enthusiast uncovered a gilded figure of Jesus Christ dating back to approximately 1100 A.D. in a windswept field near the coastal town of Åndalsnes. The find, made on All Saints’ Day, a Christian holiday honoring martyrs and saints, has captivated historians and treasure hunters alike.
Kim Erik Dybvik, a healthcare professional with a lifelong passion for archaeology, made the discovery on November 1 during a treasure-hunting expedition alongside American expat and fellow metal detectorist Warren Schmidt. Despite battling fierce winds that at times made standing difficult, the duo persevered, unearthing a variety of medieval artifacts including buttons, coins, buckles, and a medieval weight before the crucifix emerged as their most significant find.
“It was extremely windy — so windy that at times we struggled to stay on our feet,” Dybvik recalled. “But we persevered. … We found 78 buttons, some coins, buckles, a medieval weight and a lot of the usual finds.”
The discovery came late in the day, just as the sun was setting and the pair were preparing to leave. Dybvik was trailing behind Schmidt when his metal detector emitted a strong signal, often an indicator of a large object but sometimes just trash. Upon digging beneath the surface, he was stunned to find the detailed figure of Jesus on the cross, still bearing remnants of gilding and intricate torso details.
“I bent down, and right beneath the surface, he revealed himself to me — I looked Jesus straight in the eyes,” Dybvik said. “I was completely stunned. A hundred thoughts rushed through my head. I quickly dismissed the idea that it could be modern — I recognized the medieval craftsmanship immediately.”
Dybvik’s interest in metal detecting began in childhood, inspired by his upbringing on a remote volcanic islet where his father served as a lighthouse keeper. His curiosity about rare underground finds grew alongside his fascination with archaeology, a passion he now pursues in his free time across Norway.
This discovery adds to the rich tapestry of medieval artifacts found in Scandinavia, shedding light on religious art and craftsmanship from the early 12th century. The figure’s gilding and preservation suggest it was a treasured devotional object, possibly lost or buried during a period of upheaval.
Experts in medieval archaeology and religious artifacts are eager to study the crucifix further. The find underscores the value of hobbyist metal detecting in unearthing historical treasures, a practice regulated in many countries including Norway to protect cultural heritage. For more information on cultural preservation and metal detecting regulations, see resources from the University of Oslo’s Museum of Cultural History and the Natural History Museum.
The discovery also resonates with broader Christian traditions commemorated on All Saints’ Day, linking modern-day enthusiasts with medieval faith and artistry. The Norwegian government’s cultural heritage department provides guidelines on artifact reporting and preservation, ensuring finds like this are properly documented and conserved (Directorate for Cultural Heritage).
As researchers prepare to analyze the crucifix, Dybvik and Schmidt continue their explorations, driven by the thrill of uncovering history beneath their feet. Their story exemplifies how passion and perseverance can illuminate the past, even in the most challenging conditions.
For those interested in the intersection of archaeology and metal detecting, the Archaeological Institute of America offers extensive resources and news on recent discoveries worldwide.
This extraordinary find in Åndalsnes not only enriches Norway’s medieval heritage but also inspires a new generation of treasure hunters and historians eager to connect with the echoes of history buried just beneath the surface.
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