Loading, please wait...
LOT 1633
Viking Age Gold Elfshot Pendant
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D. OR EARLIER
3/4 in. (1.30 grams, 19 mm).
Comprising a D-shaped gold cap with integral loop above, inset glass bead.
ProvenanceEx property of a late Japanese collector, 1970-2000s.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
This amulet was believed to offer protection against 'Elfshot'. The attack of elves was believed responsible for mysterious suffering in men and livestock: 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.
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.
-
Large Scandinavian Viking Bronze Horse Harness Pendant
8th-10th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £247
Broad sheet-bronze disc with band of repoussé bosses to the edge, applied cross-bands to the obverse and central boss; applied attachment loop with tremolier detailing. 60 grams, 12.1 cm
From the private collection of a London gentleman, from his grandfather's collection formed before the early 1970s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
Scandinavian Viking Bronze Tortoise Brooch
9th-10th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,690
Comprising a domed openwork shell with raised ornament of five D-shaped studs amid bands of three-ply knotwork in panels; frieze of profile beasts to the lower edge, flange rim; inner shell with catch and pin-hinge to the reverse with mineralised remains of ferrous pin and textile backing. 82 grams, 10 cm
From the private collection of a London gentleman, from his grandfather's collection formed before the early 1970s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
Viking Bronze Pendant Cluster
Early 9th-11th century A.D.Estimate: £400 - 600 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £200
Comprising two hollow-formed serpentine spacers each with a loop at the outer end and a cluster of sheet bronze triangular dangles, median junction with loop and more triangular dangles. 96 grams, 24 cm
Acquired on the London art market, 1990s. Private collection, London. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
