Viking Bronze Cross on Bird Brooch

8TH-9TH CENTURY A.D.

1 3/8 in. (7.02 grams, 34 mm).

The cross forming suspension loops on its back, engraved and punched feather and eye detailing; pin lug and catchplate to reverse; likely Weetch type 30B. [No Reserve]

Provenance

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

Literature

Cf. The British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme, record id. SUR-F46DF7, for type.

Footnotes

The profile of the bird's beak suggests this is an eagle (symbolic of the Resurrection and St John) rather than a dove (symbol of the Holy Spirit), although either are a possibility. There is a group of three pierced holes on the bird's breast which might symbolise the Holy Trinity.

CONDITION

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LOT 1478