The Norwegian archaeologist Bente Magnus describes the historical and social conditions of myths and art: ornaments and animals with masks and human representations, plants as jewelry, weapons, utensils made of gold, silver and bronze. The tradition continues in Nordic art right up to the stave churches. * Norwegian archaeologist Bente Magnus describes the historical and social conditions underlying myths and art. Depicted are ornaments, birds with masks and human beings, plants as decoration, arms, objects of utility made of gold, silver and bronze. The tradition continues in Nordic art to the stave churches.