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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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Viking Age Bronze Decorated Bracelet
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £85
Of penannular form with convex outer face and geometric ornament to the body, likely zoomorphic terminal; child-sized. 26.6 grams, 50 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
Similar bracelets were found in pairs on the remains of the left forearm bones of a female, in grave 83 of Hemlanden cemetery in Birka. These bracelets, as visible in this grave, were usually worn in pairs on both arms. -
Viking Age Silver-Gilt Pendant with Face
9th-10th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £442
Displaying scroll decoration to the centre, a bearded male face to the rim, later silver attachment loop; remains of gilding to the centre. 3.2 grams, 21 mm
From the family collection of a London gentleman; formed in the late 1940s-1950s; thence by descent. -
Viking Age Bronze Decorated Bracelet
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
With convex outer face and tapering arms, stamp decorated with triangles and lozenges. 105 grams, 75 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
Similar bracelets were found usually in female graves in the Hemlanden cemetery in Birka. Sometimes they were found in pairs, sometimes worn only on the right arm. Their main characteristic was the geometric decoration engraved on the surface
