Northern Europe, Viking or Norse culture, ca. 9th to 11th century CE. A large torque necklace composed of cast billon, a copper-silver alloy. The central body boasts eighteen integral raised bulbs which taper gently towards two slender terminals, one of these with a small bent loop; the other terminal would have had another small loop as well. Though the necklace is covered in thick layers of green and russet patina, much of the original silver color is still visible. A fabulous example of high-quality Viking artistry! Size: 6.125" in diameter (15.6 cm); quality of billon: 65% copper, 35% silver.
This piece has been has been tested for the presence or absence of particular elements via XRF elemental analysis. A basic 1-page summary of the XRF screening will accompany purchase, identifying each element present in the sample, as well as the quantity of elements present. A more complete analysis detailing historical data / comparisons is available for additional charge –
please contact us. Provenance: private Davis collection, Houston, Texas, USA
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#140083
Condition
Wearable as shown, though not recommended due to fragility. Loss to one terminal loop. One stable hairline fissure on looped terminal arm, minor abrasions, and slight bending to overall form. Light earthen deposits, great traces of silver color, and nice green and russet patina throughout.