Viking Age Silver Cross Pendant with Beads

With four raised arms and central knop to the upper face, all with punched ring-and-dot detailing; the outer sidewall with four panels of knotwork, dividing vertical stems with ring-and-dot motif, each with a D-shaped protrusion; the upper face with dense zoomorphic ornament; pin and separate catchplate to the underside with central hole, five studs retaining it to the upper. 71.6 grams total, 45 mm

Fine condition, pin intact, backplate slightly cracked.

UK gallery, acquired in the 2000s. Property of an English gentleman. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11406-192532.

The type is known as a 'drum' brooch or 'box' brooch. They were apparently manufactured on the island of Gotland and all known examples probably have their origin there. Over time, the refinement of the earlier types (such as the present example) is superseded by cruder decoration consisting of dimples or simple dots.

Comprising a slender round-section shank and flattened lobe finials. 7.7 grams, 56 mm



Private collection, Arundel, West Sussex, UK, 1980s.

D-shaped plaque formed as two birds of prey in profile framing a facing mask; the neck of each bird a band with tremello fill, similar band extending from the bird's head to the sides of the mask and to a crescent panel above; looped tendril fill; reverse with shallow loop and remains of a second; mounted on a custom-made stand. 5.57 grams, 28 mm (31.7 grams total, 89 mm high including stand)



Acquired on the London art market, 1993. Private collection, London.