Viking Age Cowrie Shell Pendant Collection

Modelled standing left with stylised detailing; likely a cockerel; pin lug and catchplate to reverse. 6.4 grams, 26 mm



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

Similar brooches are known from Denmark and some examples show us a very similar form and decoration. So far England is the only area outside Scandinavia where bird brooches similar to those discovered in Denmark have been found. The archaeological finds indicate close contacts between England and Denmark in the first half of the 11th century. Anne Pedersen suggests that Byzantium art may be a source of inspiration for these specific type of brooches as is evident from the Danish coinage of the 11th century that direct or indirect influence from Constantinople played an important role, especially in connection with the presence of Danish mercenaries in the Varangian Guard of the Roman emperor.

Formed as an openwork seated wolf with long curled tail, head raised and mouth open; similar to Class A, Type 11A. 10.6 grams, 33 mm



Found near Norwich, Norfolk, UK.

Of penannular form with convex outer face and geometric ornament to the body, likely zoomorphic terminal; child-sized. 26.6 grams, 50 mm



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

Similar bracelets were found in pairs on the remains of the left forearm bones of a female, in grave 83 of Hemlanden cemetery in Birka. These bracelets, as visible in this grave, were usually worn in pairs on both arms.