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Details
LOT 1764
Anglo-Scandinavian Viking Bronze Strap End
10TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
1 1/2 in. (10.8 grams, 39 mm).
Tongue-shaped with openwork design, median figure of a bird with wings spread, domed bosses to the frame. [No Reserve]
Provenance
Found Norfolk, UK.
From an old private collection of Norfolk, UK, gentleman, formed since 1998.
Literature
Cf. Thomas, G., Late Anglo-Saxon and Viking Age Strap-Ends 750-1100: Part 2, Finds Research Group datasheet 33, Sleaford, 2007, item 27, for type.
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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.