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LOT 1331
Viking Age Bronze Beast-Head Staff Terminal
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
2 1/4 in. (41.7 grams, 58 mm).
Comprising a hollow socket with iron rod inserted, terminal formed as a beast-head with open jaws, lobed snout, canine teeth prominent, ribbed brow and bulbous eyes, D-shaped ears to the rear. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired in the 1990s.
Ex property of a German collector.
Cf. Graham-Campbell, J., The Viking World, London, 1980, p.134-5, for similar animal-heads carved on the wagon found in the Oseberg ship-burial at Tønsberg, Vestfold, Norway; the Oseberg burial marks the beginning of Viking Age art. It is dated dendrochronologically to 834 A.D.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Viking Age Silver Filigree Pendant
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £624
Flat disc with integral suspension loop, applied granules and filigree ropework detailing. 5.57 grams, 40 mm
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Viking Age Silver-Gilt Gripping Beast Pendant
10th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £312
Comprising an integral suspension loop; the openwork plaque with banded border and four panels, internal stylised zoomorph with hatched panel to the hip, gripping three-fingered hands to the body and border, two detailed feet, clearly visible facing mask below the loop with pellet eyes. 5.19 grams, 30 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.