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LOT 1264
Viking Age Bronze Pendant
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
1 1/8 in. (3.36 grams, 28 mm).
Of discoid form with integral suspension loop, decorated in relief. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
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 Decorated Bronze Bracelet
Circa 11th-12th century A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £117
Penannular in form with expanding fluted shoulders and transverse ribbing to the curved finials. 21 grams, 54 mm
Ex old English collection. London art market, pre 2000. Property of a London, UK, gentleman. -
Viking Age Bronze Decorated Bracelet
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £520
With penannular hoop with tapering arms, cross motif composed of three horizontal and three vertical notched ribs, carinated arms. 63.8 grams, 71 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
Similar bracelets were found in pair 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 Gold Elf Shot Pendant
9th-10th century A.D. or earlierSold for (Inc. bp): £468
Formed as a gold cap set with polished agate gem; suspension loop above. 0.93 grams, 18 mm
Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.
This amulet was believed to offer protection against 'Elfshot'. The attack of elves was believed responsible for mysterious suffering in men and livestock. 'Elfshot' described sudden shooting pains localised to a particular area of the body, such as in rheumatism, arthritis or muscle stitches or cramps. Elves were thought to shoot darts or arrows where such pains had no obvious external cause. Belief in elfshot persisted into the 20th century in rural areas, and as proof country folk would sometimes find small arrowheads (the remains of Neolithic or Mesolithic flints, or naturally-occurring spear-shaped stones) that were believed to be the magical weapons that caused the afflictions. Belief in elfshot began in the Pagan Germanic period.
