Úlfhéðnar (singular Úlfheðinn) stand apart from and transcend the Berserkir in their unique status as the pinnacle of Norse warriors, a distinction earned through their lineage. These formidable warriors are not made; they are born, and they are exclusively male. Úlfhéðnar are symbolically and physically linked to wolf pelts, in stark contrast to traditional Berserkir, who are associated with bear pelts. This affinity arises from their reputation for hosting the spirits of wolves and possessing the ability to become hamrammir, or shape-shifters. Consequently, Úlfhéðnar hold wolves in deep reverence and abstain from hunting them, instead receiving their pelts as sacred gifts when these animals meet their natural end.
...
Hand-carved wooden figure by Frantishak Bagushevich
