Viking Age Silver-Gilt Artefact Group

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.

Retaining an articulate pin to reverse and geometric detailing to each face. 37 grams, 48 mm



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

Of triangular form with integral suspension loop, the face delineated using granules to form almond-shaped eyes beneath eyebrows, concentric chevrons to the nasal line; applied granules and straps to the loop. 1.79 grams, 26 mm



Acquired on the German art market before 2000. From a London W1, UK, collection.