Loading, please wait...
LOT 1512
Viking Age Gold Axe Pendant
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
1/2 in. (0.53 grams, 14 mm).
Sheet-gold twibill pendant with filigree detailing.
ProvenanceAcquired 1980-2015.
Ex Abelita family collection.
Cf. Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.107, for bronze axe pendants.
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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Viking Age Gold Elf Shot Pendant
9th-10th century A.D. or earlierSold for (Inc. bp): £390
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. -
Viking Age Bronze Artefact Collection
6th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
Comprising a gilt equal-arm brooch with chased faces, remains of pin-lug and catchplate to reverse; Norman dagger chape formed as opposed beasts; quatrefoil mount with domed ovals at the centre of to beast heads. 34.4 grams total, 34-46 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s. -
Viking Bronze Bird Brooch
10th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £364
Modelled in profile with radiating tripartite crest, triangular stub wing, splayed feet, catch and pin-lugs to the reverse. 10.9 grams, 38 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
