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LOT 0356
Viking Age Bronze Tortoise Brooch
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
3 5/8 in. (71 grams, 93 mm).
Composed of an elliptical domed body decorated with a transverse band of ribbed decoration featuring four facing masks with pellet eyes; the outer fields with zoomorphic tendril designs edged by a ropework border; geometric motif to the flange; transverse bar and remains of some fitting elements to reverse. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
LiteratureCf. MacGregor, A. et al., A Summary Catalogue of the Continental Archaeological Collections, Oxford, 1997, item 4, for oval brooches; cf. Ewing, T., Viking Clothing, Strood, 2007, fig.36; cf. Franceschi, G., Asger, J. & Magnus, B., Mennesker, Guder og Masker i Nordisk Jernalderkunst, Bind 1, Silkeborg, 2005, figs.130-1.
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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Large Viking Age Bronze Regardant Beast Pendant
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £195
Of discoid form with integral suspension loop, design in relief. 17.2 grams, 47 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s. -
Viking Age Bronze Sword Scabbard Chape
9th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £267
With tongue-shaped body and scalloped upper edges, bifacial Oseberg Style openwork design, faux-ropework upper borders and carinated lower rim. 24.1 grams, 66 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
Chapes (ferrules) of 10th-11th century A.D. have been found in all territories reached by the Vikings in Europe and Asia, mostly in the Baltic regions. Ornamental ferrules were cast in copper-alloy, or occasionally silver or tin or gilded. In proportion to the large number of swords from the Viking Age a very few metal ferrules have been found. -
Viking Rus Gilt Brooch with Floral Motif
11th-12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £312
Square in plan with a convex underside and domed upper face, decorated with symmetrical scrolling vegetation in raised relief; pin lug and catchplate to reverse. 19.08 grams, 33 mm
Fine condition.
Acquired in the 1980s-1990s. Ex an important central London gallery, London W1.
These kind of appliques were used for belts, harnesses, quivers, saddles and various other Rus and Steppe warrior fittings.
