An excerpt from Vesterheim, Vol. 2, N0. 1, 2004
Silver objects symbolized many different aspects of Norwegian culture and beliefs, and for this reason, they were sentimental, valuable objects to Norwegians over centuries. Once goldsmiths towards the late 1500s realized that silver was much more consistently available than gold in Norway, it became a hot commodity within traditional Norwegian culture. They crafted fine pieces out of silver, each marked by the artisan to show who the piece was created by, as well as when, and where. The fine silver work of Norway led these pieces to be considered important ways to honor people and events. And, while artisans were also able to create the necessary tools for everyday life, they made time for creating objects like perfume bottles, sewing kits, and other more recreational pieces too.
