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LOT 1196
Viking Bronze Bird Brooch with Cross
10TH CENTURY A.D.
1 1/4 in. (10.06 grams, 31 mm).
The bird in profile with equal-arm cross on its back, linear detail to the wing and tail, lentoid eye, loop below the chest; loop to the reverse. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFound near Winteringham, Humberside, UK.
LiteratureCf. Hammond, B., British Artefacts vol.2 - Middle Saxon & Viking, Witham, 2010, item 1.1.3-a.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
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From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s. -
Viking Age Gold 'Elf Shot' Pendant
9th-10th century A.D. or earlierSold for (Inc. bp): £624
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
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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. -
Viking Age Bronze Tortoise Brooch
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £390
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From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
