Viking Age Silver Axe Pendant

A gold 'elf shot' pendant with arch-shaped body and collared suspension loop, set with a polished garnet or amethyst stone. 1.31 grams, 16 mm high



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.

A coiled silver ring comprising five slender tiers and tapering terminals, the central three coils plain, the upper and lower most tiers decorated with punched rectangles within expanded elliptical panels. 5.25 grams, 21.85 mm overall, 17.25 mm internal diameter (approximate size British M 1/2, USA 6 1/4, Europe 13.09, Japan 12)



Acquired in the late 1990s-2000. Property of an East London gentleman.

A group of iron keys and a lock; three keys with square pierced finials; one with a disc finial, two square voids; one with a cruciform head. crimped edges and void; iron barrel padlock with hasp. 250 grams total, 10.7-11.8 cm



Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector.