Viking Age Gold Hammer Pendant

Discoid plate with integral suspension loop secured at the reverse, symmetrical cruciform design of applied silver filigree coils and granule ornament. 5.68 grams, 44 mm



Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK.

Gold cup with hoop and suspension loop, with glass insert. 1.37 grams, 17 mm



Ex property of a late Japanese collector, 1970-2000s.

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.

Curved blade attached to a wire hoop with the ends wound round the shank. 1.61 grams, 34 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of Surrey, UK, gentleman.