Viking Age Bronze Bracelet

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.

With flange to both rims and bifacial ornament, bands of punched pellet and saltire detailing to the edges of each face and the outer rim, pointillé chevron, pellet and other motifs flanking the gap and on the hoop opposite; Latvian-Baltic type. 157 grams, 95 mm



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

The warrior bracelets were very often decorated with symbols of divinities. The zig-zag line here visible are the symbol of Mara, the deity of earth and water and all the creatures within. An insight into her position within the ancient beliefs abound in dainas, and are just as often visually reflected in Latvian ornamental design. This symbol dates back to the Iron Age.

With four voids forming the cross-potent motif to the centre, pierced lug suspension. 2.2 grams, 26 mm



Acquired 1970s. From the private collection of a Northern Ireland gentleman. Ex private Merseyside, UK, collection.