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LOT 0357
Viking Age Silver-Gilt Filigree Pendant with Conjoined Ravens
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
1 5/8 in. (6.26 grams, 42 mm).
The upper face decorated with a two-headed filigree raven, raised ropework border, suspension loop with pyramids of granules continuing onto the reverse. [No Reserve]
ProvenancePrivate collection formed in Europe in the 1980s.
Westminster collection, central London, UK.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.203746.
Cf. Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, for discussion and comparable examples; cf. Sedov, B.B., Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija, Moscow, 1987, for discussion and comparable examples; cf. Korshun, V.E.. Yazcheskye Priveski Drevnei Rusi X-XIV Vekov, volume III, Moscow, 2013, item L.1.01.
FootnotesPairs of ravens were considered auspicious in medieval Scandinavian society. In pre-Christian times, two such birds were the informants of the god Odin, who relayed news of the deeds of men. They were also carrion birds, frequenting battlefields to feast on the bodies of fallen warriors.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0357
Viking Age Silver-Gilt Filigree Pendant with Conjoined Ravens
Sold for (Inc. bp): £5,460
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Viking Age Bronze Twisted Bracelet with Beast Head Terminals
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From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s. -
Viking Age Iron Socketted Spearhead and Javelinhead Group
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Viking Age Stamp-Decorated Bronze Bracelet
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £208
With a carinated outer face with stamped annulets and faux ropework above and below raised rib to the equator, transverse grooves to the terminals. 79 grams, 75 mm wide
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
