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LOT 1215
Viking Age Bronze Comb
10TH-12TH CENTURY A.D.
1 3/4 in. (16.5 grams, 44 mm).
Featuring a scalloped handle with openwork scrolling tendrils, complete set of teeth below. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired 1980-2000.
Ex property of an American collector.
See similar in Arbman, H., Birka I, Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.100, no.2, from grave 1162.
FootnotesNorsemen were particularly fastidious about their appearance. The hair and beard were important to the men, for making a statement and to intimidate their opponents. Early combs were made from antler or bone and carried in a small pouch; high status combs were later made from metal (mainly bronze) and have been found as grave goods.
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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Anglo-Scandinavian Viking Bronze Urnes Style Entwined Beast Stirrup Mount
11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £494
Of Williams's Class A Type 10b, a heater-shaped plaque with pierced lug at the apex, two piercings below, low-relief openwork Urnes style design with standing beast and entwined tendrils, narrow ledge to the reverse. 28.3 grams, 53 mm
Found Berkshire, UK.
The mount has the decorative scheme of Williams's Class A Type 10b but its proportions are closer to his Class A Type 11 with a narrow and elongated upper knop. -
Viking Age Bronze Strap End Collection
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £85
Encompassing a variety of types, including openwork, zoomorphic and vegetal designs. 52.2 grams total, 28-55 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s. -
Viking Age Bronze Decorated Bracelet
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £52
With penannular hoop, snaking vertical grooves and large dimples, terminals formed as snake's head swallowing its tail. 28 grams, 48mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
A similar bracelet, with deep wavy furrows and stamped rows of circles, was found on the remains of the right forearm bones of a female, in grave 1081 of Hemlanden Birka cemetery. These bracelets, as visible in this grave, were usually worn in pairs on both arms, or - like in the case of the Birka grave - paired with another kind of bracelet.
