Viking Age Bronze Strap End

Adorned with filigree to the sidewall and handle, a polished red glass gem to the base held in a toothed setting. 2.24 grams, 21 mm



Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK.

Pendants in the form of miniature buckets have been found in a number of pagan Anglo-Saxon and Viking contexts and are generally made of bronze or iron, with gold examples being rare; three gold examples were found with the hoard from Hoen, Norway. Bronze bucket amulets have been found at Driffield in Yorkshire, and Vimose bog in Denmark, among other places. In form they represent wooden buckets bound with bronze or iron bands which have been found in Anglo-Saxon and Viking graves and are believed to have held mead or ale and were used to replenish the cups from which warriors drank. As amulets they probably represent the ecstatic power of alcoholic drink and the role of women as the dispensers of these precious beverages.

Four flat in profile with mask detailing to the tongue-rest; one a substantial D-shaped loop; one similar with keeper to the rear, inlaid silver banding. 53.6 grams total, 23-64 mm



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

Featuring coiled terminals, raised medial rib and free-running pin; the coiled pin head and the body with stamped and incised geometric motifs. 70 grams, 77 mm wide



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