Viking Period Gold and Crystal Pendant with Bead Drop

CIRCA 10TH-12TH CENTURY A.D.

3 1/8 in. (21.69 grams, 79 mm).

Irregular barrel-shaped crystal with lozengiform gold base, braided strip from each arm extending to the bell-shaped cap with punched pellet and triangle motifs; braided filigree collar and loop, thick gold rod suspension loop; underside with short dangle, amethyst and glass beads. [No Reserve]

Provenance

Private 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 number no.12932-245386.

Literature

Cf. Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.279(3).

Footnotes

In Birka grave 1148B, a similar piece was found in a warrior cremation grave. It was a fragment of a grey slate whetstone, with a rivetted, groove-decorated bronze fitting, which ends in a bronze carrying ring. These items were worn as pendants.

CONDITION

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LOT 0305