Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021
Human sacrifice
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Human sacrifice
Priests and others watch as a victim burns in ancient Scandinavia. Date: 1555
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23030476
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1555 Burns Human Priests Sacrifice Scandinavia Victim Watch
EDITORS COMMENTS
Witnessing the Sacrificial Rite: A Solemn Occasion in Ancient Scandinavia (1555) This haunting image captures a pivotal moment in the ancient Scandinavian custom of human sacrifice. The year is 1555, and the scene unfolds in a remote, forested area. The victim, bound and gagged, is shown in the center, his body engulfed in the fiery embrace of the sacrificial pyre. The intensity of the flames illuminates the faces of the onlookers, a somber procession of priests and other devotees. Their expressions range from solemn reverence to quiet acceptance, as they bear witness to the ritual's conclusion. Human sacrifice was a deeply rooted practice in the religious traditions of ancient Scandinavia, believed to appease the gods and ensure the prosperity of their communities. The specifics of this particular ritual are not well-documented, but it is believed that the victim was chosen based on various factors, including age, health, and social standing. The sacrifice would be offered willingly or, in some cases, forcibly taken. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the complex and often enigmatic nature of ancient religious practices. It invites us to reflect on the human capacity for both violence and devotion, and the ways in which our ancestors sought to understand and navigate the mysteries of the universe. As we gaze upon this haunting scene, we are reminded of the enduring power of tradition and the profound impact it can have on the human experience.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.