Viking Age Bronze Teardrop Pendant Weight

Border enclosing a low-relief image of a male facing mask between two birds embraced at the necks; with integral loop. 2.8 grams, 20 mm



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

A silver pendant formed as a miniature bucket with applied filigree bands to the strap handle and body. 2.57 grams, 24 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.

An integral loop open to the rear, openwork regardant dragon with tendrils extending to the rim. 3.72 grams, 32 mm



Acquired in the 1990s. Previously the property of a German collector. From the collection of a North American gentleman.