Anglo-Scandinavian Viking Bronze Stirrup Mount

Adorned with filigree to the sidewall and handle, a polished red glass gem to the base held in a toothed setting. 2.24 grams, 21 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.

Modelled in profile with detailed high-relief plumage. 7.12 grams, 30 mm



From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.

Zoomorphic brooches were a long lived tradition in Germanic communities, including amongst Anglo-Saxons and Scandinavians. Most types appear to have fallen out of use in the 11th century, except the ones linked with Christian symbology.

The bird standing in profile right, possibly a dove, carrying a Christian cross on its back, simple geometric detailing to the tail, wing, feet and head; pin lug and catchplate to reverse. 10.6 grams, 37 mm



Acquired 1990s. From an East Anglian private collection.