Viking Age Silver Boat-Shaped Pendant

Zoomorphic, in the form of a bird with wing and feather detailing highlighted in filigree, the suspension tube forming the bird's head, curved beak below, beaded filigree collars and coiled wire to each arm of the suspension loop. 5.46 grams, 43 mm



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

Composed of an discoid body with integral suspension loop; openwork design of a zoomorph enmeshed in tendrils, pellet detailing. 6.48 grams, 38 mm



From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.

Formed as a gold cap with rounded claws, set with polished glass gem; integral suspension loop with a later jump ring. 0.64 grams, 21 mm



From a late Japanese specialist 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. '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.