Viking Silver Cross Pendant

The upper face decorated with a two-headed filigree raven, raised ropework border, suspension loop with pyramids of granules continuing onto the reverse. 6.26 grams, 42 mm



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 no.203746.

Pairs 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.

With a suspension loop and short length of chain composed of coiled wire links, clasping a polished plano-convex garnet. 0.94 grams, 24 mm

Fine condition.

Acquired 1970-2010. Collection of a late Japanese gentleman.

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.

With medial band of pellets between shallow channels. 1.64 grams, 17.62 mm overall, 16.17 mm internal diameter (approximate size British J 1/2, USA 5, Europe 9.32, Japan 9)



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