Northern Europe, Scandinavia, pre-Viking or early Viking period (often called Migration period or Germanic Iron Age), ca. 6th to 7th century CE. A gorgeous and rare bracteate pendant, made from 98% pure silver. The surface is decorated with granulated and filigreed motifs of interlocking curls and bosses. The top has a folded-over loop, also decorated with filigreed ornament. A modern cord with sterling silver clasp is threaded through to make the piece wearable as a necklace. Pendants like this one were made to be worn around the neck as a type of amulet or sewn onto clothing, and were frequently made of melted down coinage traded north from the Mediterranean. Size: 1.2" W x 1.45" H (3 cm x 3.7 cm); length of cord: 19" L (48.3 cm)
Filigree and granulation are among the oldest goldsmithing techniques. The techniques involved include twisting silver wires and soldering incredibly tiny beads comprised of the same precious metal onto the surface of the piece of jewelry. This very complicated technique requires painstaking attention to detail that relatively few jewelers have ever mastered. Ancient civilizations such as the Mesopotamians, Greeks, and Etruscans developed the methodology; filigreed and granulated jewelry continued to be popular in the Roman empire, and was also sought after by the Slavs, Anglo-Saxons, and Vikings, remaining popular throughout the Middle Ages. In fact, modern jewelers still utilize these ancient goldsmithing techniques.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection
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#146699
Condition
Excellent condition with very slight bending to form. Rich patina. Ancient pendant with modern cord to make it wearable!