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LOT 1722
Viking Age Bronze Fire Steel with Figure and Animals
8TH-10TH CENTURY A.D.
2 3/8 in. (58 grams, 60 mm).
With openwork bifacial handle depicting central standing figure with arms outstretched towards the necks of two flanking rampant beasts; iron blade beneath; Finno-Ugric type.
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a London gentleman, from his grandfather's collection formed before the early 1970s.
LiteratureSee Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.144, item 1, for type.
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Narrow hoop with bezel of two claw settings each with an inset cabochon stone. 2.73 grams, 22.43 mm overall, 15.28 mm internal diameter (approximate size British H 1/2, USA 4, Europe 6.81, Japan 6)
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Pre-Viking Period Bronze Ring with Wolf Heads
7th-8th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £650
Penannular hoop expanding at the shoulders; the shoulders with fur detailing, and each of the finials formed as a wolf's head with large annular eyes and pointed ears. 10.25 grams, 27.53 mm overall, 21.91 mm internal diameter (approximate size British V, USA 10 1/2, Europe 23.77, Japan 22)
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