Viking Age Silver Axe-Shaped Pendant

A copper-alloy ring composed of a tapering hoop which is thickest at the bezel, decorated with a deep, faux-twist motif. 3.35 grams, 24.61 mm overall, 18.40 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P 1/2, USA 7 3/4, Europe 16.86, Japan 16)



Private collection formed since in the 1940s. UK art market. Property of an Essex gentleman.

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 copper-alloy zoomorphic stirrup mount of Williams' Class A, Type 8; formed as a boar's head with stylised detailing; the mount is sub-triangular in plan displaying one head at the apex and two heads below, decoration comprising looping and bifurcating tendrils; shallow ledge to the reverse and three perforations for mounting. 23.3 grams, 55 mm

Fine condition, traces of strap to the reverse.

Found near Snargate, Kent, UK. Property of a Kent gentleman. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no. KENT-D935E8.