Viking Age Gilt Bronze Openwork Roundel with Interlaced Snakes

Comprising: an openwork trichinopoly chain with D-section beast-head terminals each with granule and filigree detailing, pierced at the lower end to accept a round-section hoop by two further rings to a hoop with free-running hollow silver Thor's hammer pendant with filigree ornament to the upper face. 116 grams, 76 cm long



Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK. Accompanied by a specialist metal analysis report. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11896-203749.

Formed as a gold cap set with polished glass gem; suspension loop above. 0.85 grams, 17 mm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

This amulet was believed to offer protection against 'Elfshot'. The attack of elves was believed responsible for mysterious suffering in men and livestock. 'Elfshot' described sudden shooting pains localised to a particular area of the body, such as in rheumatism, arthritis or muscle stitches or cramps. Elves were thought to shoot darts or arrows where such pains had no obvious external cause. Belief in elfshot persisted into the 20th century in rural areas, and as proof country folk would sometimes find small arrowheads (the remains of Neolithic or Mesolithic flints, or naturally-occurring spear-shaped stones) that were believed to be the magical weapons that caused the afflictions. Belief in elfshot began in the Pagan Germanic period.

Composed of a reversed C-section penannular hoop, decorated with a symmetrical punch-stamped geometric design of annulets, pelletted triangles and pecking; chip to one terminal. 11.4 grams, 52 mm



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