Marauding Vikings
The suits, axes and shields worn by the Jarl Squad are unique each year. They’re not historic replicas, but rather carry on traditions and take inspiration from previous Up Helly Aa festivals. A huge amount of effort and craftsmanship goes into their making. The suits this year were “95% hand-crafted”, designed and mainly made by the squad themselves. Local company Shetland Jewellery produced the jewellery for the squad. The fantastic griffin motif used by the squad was designed by local artist Dirk Robertson, and takes inspiration in part from the ‘Quendale Beast’ broch found in Shetland. There are also elements inspired by the design for the 1982 Jarl Squad, who were led by Jarl’s father-in-law.
[Up Helly Aa 2024 - Image 9 of 23]
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Image #1354