Northern Europe, Viking / Norse, ca. 9th to 11th century CE. An elegant silver bracelet or arm cuff of penannular form comprised of a flat band and tapering terminals. The exterior is adorned with stamped triangular and circular motifs forming a nearly symmetrical, geometric designs. While the exact symbolism of the triangular and stippled designs remains unclear, it is likely that the motif became popular for its simplicity in creation and its visually intriguing, intricate appearance. This bracelet is in excellent condition and is fully wearable. Size: 2.9" L x 0.9" W x 3.1" H (7.4 cm x 2.3 cm x 7.9 cm); silver quality: 92%; weight: 57.6 grams
Silver was the principal currency of the Viking world, which stretched from Russia to northern Canada at the height of their influence. In many places, the Vikings kept silver not as coins, but as jewelry, a wearable currency form that was not subject to the authority of a monarch or mint. Items like this bracelet would have been used as an outward display of wealth and could be melted down and reformed into a new form of currency if needed. Vikings hoarded precious metals, especially silver, to a great degree; for example, in Viking Scotland alone, we know of thirty-one Viking age hoards containing silver - and those are just the ones we know about - while Viking Ireland has nearly double that!
Provenance: private London, UK collection; ex-private collection, acquired from a Munich, Germany private collection in the 1990s
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#191722
Condition
Miniscule surface wear as shown. Otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable with nicely preserved detail. Light patina in areas commensurate with age.