Viking Age Bronze Sun Whorl Pendant

Composed of a sheet-silver domed discoid body with bands of applied filigree and granule detailing, cruciform design with interstitial facing masks, reeded strip detailing to reverse and hinged pin. 14.2 grams, 44 mm



Acquired in Germany in the 1990s. Formerly the property of a European gentleman living in Germany. Ex West London, UK, collection. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11730-200376.

The gradual spreading of Christianity among the Danish Vikings can be seen in certain pieces of jewellery, as here, where a cross is clearly traced among the filigree ornaments. Pagan amulets - such as Thor's hammer - were first combined with cross motifs and finally completely replaced by crucifixes.

Within a filigree border; suspension loop above. 2.6 grams, 32 mm



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

In the Gnezdovo Hoard, 46 beads of sheet silver, most with granulation of Slav character, others with filigree, were part of one of the greatest Viking treasure found in the East. The jewellery, most of Scandinavian or Slav character, show the great mix of style and decoration which ornamented the dress and the garments of the Vikings in the East.

The surface slightly domed, Bidriware silver facing with geometric motifs within concentric annular borders; three of four remaining lugs to reverse. 16.7 grams, 35 mm



Acquired on the German art market before 2000. From an old Munich collection.