Viking Age Tinned Bronze Openwork Disc Brooch

Composed of a sheet-silver domed discoid body with bands of applied filigree and granule detailing, cruciform design with interstitial facing masks, reeded strip detailing to reverse and hinged pin. 14.2 grams, 44 mm



Acquired in Germany in the 1990s. Formerly the property of a European gentleman living in Germany. Ex West London, UK, collection. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11730-200376.

The gradual spreading of Christianity among the Danish Vikings can be seen in certain pieces of jewellery, as here, where a cross is clearly traced among the filigree ornaments. Pagan amulets - such as Thor's hammer - were first combined with cross motifs and finally completely replaced by crucifixes.

Comprising a tapering sleeve and stylised bird-head with scrolled beak and angled bar above the eye; pierced in two places. 14.5 grams, 50 mm



Acquired in the early 1970s. Ex property of a Surrey, UK, collector.

The decorative style of the terminal bears resemblance to the Trewhiddle style, dated to the ninth to early tenth centuries, although it seems a more simplified version of the Taplow Horn terminals. Zoomorphic terminals on Trewhiddle style strap ends bear very similar circular ears containing chevron motifs, and panels of decoration on the brow.

The trio comprising ingots of different lengths, weights and cross-sections. 62.5 grams total, 45-56 mm



Acquired on the London art market, 1980s-1990s.