Viking Age Bronze Tortoise Brooch with Ravens

9TH-10TH CENTURY A.D.

3 1/8 in. (62.6 grams, 80 mm).

With domed elliptical body and narrow flange, high-relief palmette ornament and omega-shaped panels and opposed ravens with curved beaks. [No Reserve]

Provenance

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

Literature

Cf. Nerman, B., Die Vendelzeit Gotlands, Stockholm, 1969, pl.VII:5, item 271; cf. Hildebrand, H., Kongl. Vitterhets Historie Och Antiqvitets Akademiens Manadsblad, Stockholm, 1876, fig.82; Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Graber, Uppsala, 1940, fig.151.

Footnotes

The silvery appearance of the brooch is probably due to a high proportion of tin in the bronze alloy.

CONDITION

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LOT 0296