Anglo-Scandinavian Viking Bronze Stirrup Apex Mount

Miniature drum-shaped vessel covered in filigree meander pattern with bobbles and strap handle. 1.60 grams, 12 mm



Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK.

Pendants in the form of miniature buckets have been found in a number of pagan Anglo-Saxon and Viking contexts and are generally made of bronze or iron, with gold examples being rare; three gold examples were found with the hoard from Hoen, Norway. Bronze bucket amulets have been found at Driffield in Yorkshire, and Vimose bog in Denmark, among other places. In form they represent wooden buckets bound with bronze or iron bands which have been found in Anglo-Saxon and Viking graves and are believed to have held mead or ale and were used to replenish the cups from which warriors drank. As amulets they probably represent the ecstatic power of alcoholic drink and the role of women as the dispensers of these precious beverages.

Formed as a galloping horse carrying a warrior holding a sword in one hand and the other extended to hold the reins, with a rectangular iron bar below. 55 grams, 47 mm



From the private coin collection of a West London, UK, gentleman, formed since the mid 1980s.

Penannular torc formed of two round-section rods with a looped terminal. 54 grams, 14 cm



Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, Suffolk.