Loading, please wait...
LOT 1816
Viking Age Gold Elfshot Pendant
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D. OR EARLIER
2 1/4 in. (1.64 grams, 57 mm).
Comprising a D-shaped gold cap with integral loop above, inset knapped flint blade.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a late Japanese collector, 1970s.
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.
-
Viking Period Bronze Twisted Neck Torc
9th-11th century A.D. or earlierSold for (Inc. bp): £72
Penannular body formed from two rods twisted about each other with looped terminals. 32 grams, 14.5 cm
UK private collection before 2000. Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, London, UK. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
Viking Period Bronze Twisted Bracelet
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £124
Penannular in form made from three wire strands, one looped at one end. 19 grams, 57 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
Viking Age Bronze Pendant with Foot Dangles
9th-10th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £338
Openwork rectangular plaque with stylised curved finials, pair of attachment loops to the reverse; seven suspension loops to the underside, each with a duck foot dangle; Finno-Ugric type. 49.2 grams, 98 mm
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.
