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LOT 1198
Finno-Ugrian Socketted Axehead
10TH-13TH CENTURY A.D.
6 7/8 in. (569 grams, 17.5 cm).
Hand-forged with triangular-section narrow blade widening to a broad bevelled edge with square chin and spur to the rear, socket with flanges to the rear. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a London gentleman, from his grandfather's collection formed before the early 1970s.
LiteratureCf. Nicolle, D., 'Raiders of the Ice War' in Military Illustrated, March 1996, no.94, pp.26-29, fig.p.28, for similar axes; Sedov, B.B., 'Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija,' Moscow, 1987, pl.CX, item 44.
FootnotesDuring the mid 13th century, the axes were favourite weapons among Baltic people. For instance, the Curonian army included lightly armed soldiers who fought with spears, shields, fighting knives and axes. A heavily armed soldier could also carry a sword, a helmet, a shield and a wide-bladed axe.
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Merovingian Gold Cloisonne Pendant
Late 7th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £156
In the shape of a beetle(?) with a flat surface on one side, and divided on the other side by five spaces intended for cloisonne insertions; small loop for suspension in the upper part. 0.68 grams, 15 mm
From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s.
The cloisonne decoration, probably of Constantinopolitan origin, became an object of local production in the Merovingian kingdom since the 6th century A.D. Decorative objects of this type are common in female and male tombs, intended for the ornamentation of belts and household objects, arms and clothing. -
Large Viking Age Silver Pendant with Beast Facing Back
Circa 9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,210
With complex beast left, facing back to the right, gripping a tendril, within a double rope border with filigree annulets in the field; suspension loop to the apex, decorated with filigree pellets within annulets. 7.57 grams, 49 mm high
Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK. -
Viking Age Gold Twisted Bracelet
9th-11th century A.D. or earlierSold for (Inc. bp): £1,235
Composed of a slender, decoratively twisted penannular hoop with expanded collared terminals. 9.51 grams, 61 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
