Viking Age Bronze Bracelet with Triangular Terminals

D-section shank with ribbed collar, D-shaped loop to each end with ribbing. 31.9 grams, 67 mm



Found whilst searching with a metal detector in East Anglia, UK.

Gold cup with hoop and suspension loop, with carnelian insert. 0.78 grams, 16 mm



Ex property of a late Japanese collector, 1970-2000s.

This amulet was believed to offer protection against 'Elfshot'. The attack of elves was believed responsible for mysterious suffering in men and livestock: sudden shooting pains localised to a particular area of the body, such as in rheumatism, arthritis or muscle stitches or cramps. Elves were thought to shoot darts or arrows where such pains had no obvious external cause. Belief in elfshot persisted into the 20th century in rural areas, and as proof country folk would sometimes find small arrowheads (the remains of Neolithic or Mesolithic flints, or naturally-occurring spear-shaped stones) that were believed to be the magical weapons that caused the afflictions. Belief in elfshot began in the Pagan Germanic period.

Comprising: two elliptical bronze tortoise brooches, each a domed openwork shell with raised ornament of five bell-shaped studs and four Borre Style beasts; frieze of profile beasts to the lower edge and flange rim; catchplate, pin-hinge and pendant attachment bar to the reverse with mineralised remains of textile backing; repaired. 218 grams total, 10.8-11.5 cm



From the private collection of a London gentleman, from his grandfather's collection formed before the early 1970s.