Anglo-Scandinavian Viking Bronze Stirrup Apex Mount

A flat-section Mordvinian type brooch comprising a penannular band and two trapezoidal plates; the tongue round-section with flat scroll around the band; the plates each with raised pellets and four pierced lugs to the outer edges. 12.4 grams, 55 mm



Ex property of an Essex gentleman. Property of a Scottish collector, acquired in 2013.

This type of brooch belongs to the typologies of the omega brooches. It was probably used by Ugro-Finnic people to fasten the shirt at the neck or to attach other lighter garments. These brooches evolved to become very elaborate, with dangling springs from the edges, and were often worn in pairs, destined to female garments. In this late Viking period their coins demonstrated Russian and Eastern Roman influences in their art and jewellery.

Matched pair, each a twisted hoop with addorsed coil finials, round-section pin. 5.17 grams total, 24-25 mm



UK private collection before 2000. Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a London gentleman.

Featuring a chip-carved knotted scheme between scrolling flanks, dragon’s head terminal with upturned nostrils and snarling mouth revealing two rows of vicious teeth; flat back with three studs for attachment; mounted on a custom-made stand. 7 grams, 23 mm (21 grams total, 57mm including stand)

Very fine condition.

Previously in a North European collection. Ex UK collection. Nigel Mills, East London, UK. Property of a Cambridgeshire, UK, gentleman.

Animal heads of this size were often used to make mounts or small weights. They often had insertions of precious stones in the eyes and cavities, and were made of gold, silver, lead, and gilded bronze. The Norse mythological bestiary was varied, and dragon heads were common. Perhaps this head represents the world serpent, Jǫrmungandr, son of Loki and destined to die at the hands of Thor in Ragnarok, in turn killing the god with his poisonous exhalations.