This is a pewter reproduction of a copper alloy needle case found at Stong, Iceland. It dates from the 11th centuary. The needles would be held in a piece of cloth attached to a cord that could be pulled through the tube - perhaps secured with a bead or a large knot at either end. It would be hung from a brooch or a belt, and they are often found in women's graves from the viking age.
 
It measures 6cm in length, and is 3.5cm from the top of the hanging loop to the bottom of the middle point. The internal diameter is 8mm.
 
Made and handled by Asgard