Viking Age Bronze Pendant Pair

Of openwork form, each displaying the same zoomorphic design with large eyes. 36.5 grams total, 46 mm each



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

Featuring shallow engraved motifs and raised pellets and faux ropework, the penannular body tapering towards the terminals. 153 grams, 73 mm



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

In the Malmsmyr hoard five moulded silver armlets were found with similar decoration: deep furrows in zig-zag pattern, perforated dots and a striped central trim. The inner sides are smooth, but four of the armlets have a stamp decoration of dots in a cross shape; on two armlets this is in combination with diamond shapes.

With integral loop; the openwork plaque with banded border and four panels, internal stylised zoomorph with hatched panel to the hip, gripping three-fingered hands to the body and border, two detailed feet, clearly visible facing mask below the loop with pellet eyes. 8.44 grams, 35 mm



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

There is a class of discoid pendants with banded borders and contorted figures found in the hinterland of the Baltic region, associated with the influence of Scandinavian settlers. The design of these items recalls specific elements of Scandinavian art - for example, the 'gripping hands' motif is a feature of the Oseberg Style named after the famous Norwegian ship-burial. Oseberg Style is associated with the beginnings of the Viking age, and was current in the 9th century when Scandinavian settlers began to establish centres of trade and political control in the area of the rivers Dnieper and Volga. The motif has been interpreted as a horse and linked with various legends and mythic figures.