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Barnebys HQ
Brahegatan 10
BOX 5038
114 37 Stockholm
All auctions / Ancient Art / Early Medieval / Viking-Age “The Sacred Drop of the...
An exceptionally decorative bronze pendant of attributed Early Medieval / Viking-Age character, distinguished by its unusual tear-drop form and striking arrangement of coloured glass-paste inlays. The pendant is constructed around a strongly defined bronze framework. At its centre is a large tear- or eye-shaped compartment, filled with pale glass paste and enclosing a smaller circular central element. Surrounding it is a constellation of smaller circular and oval cells containing contrasting tones of creamy white, warm ochre-yellow and pale blue-green. The resulting composition has an almost celestial appearance: a central “eye” surrounded by smaller luminous discs. Whether these elements originally carried a specific protective, solar or symbolic meaning cannot now be established with certainty, but the design gives the pendant a powerful talismanic character. Particularly beautiful is the contrast between the colourful surviving inlays and the deep green and earthy bronze surface, which emphasizes both the age-inspired character and intricate construction of the piece. Its asymmetrical tear-drop or paisley-like silhouette makes it especially unusual compared with the more familiar circular and cross-shaped medieval pendants. Culture/Period: Early Medieval / Viking Age, attributed Date: approximately 9th–11th century AD, attribution Object: Decorative amulet / pendant Material: Bronze with polychrome glass-paste inlays Form: Curved tear-drop / paisley-shaped pendant Decoration: Central eye/tear motif surrounded by multiple circular and oval coloured cells Colours: Cream-white, ochre-yellow and pale blue-green Condition: Age-related surface wear and patination; various inlays survive with irregularities and losses consistent with the appearance shown. Please examine all photographs carefully. Presentation: Fitted with a modern suspension ring and silver chain for wearable presentation; these modern elements are not part of the historical object. The combination of bronze, colour and the mysterious central eye-like composition gives this pendant extraordinary visual presence — a small object that feels simultaneously ornamental and talismanic.
Estimate:£168.98
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Estimate:
£168.98
OCT 23 | 8:00 AM
OCT 27 | 4:00 PM
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