1047 - Gold-plated silver pendant with a cross-shaped braided cord, Viking, 10th century.

Gold-plated silver pendant with a cross-shaped braided cord, Viking, 10th century. A barrel-shaped eyelet closed in a circle at both ends, which is only fully formed on one side of the front face, while the curved wall is missing on the back half. Ribbed on the front side, perpendicular to the direction of the eyelet. Below this is a braided cord pattern consisting of two main components: First, a “St. Andrew’s cross,” in the center of which a tall rectangular cabochon is set, and whose cross arms taper into triangular claws, the lateral ends of which are extended into “horns.” The design of the claws could certainly be interpreted as a stylized bull’s head. Second, a braided pattern consisting of eight intertwined strands, whose bands run above and below the “horns.” The bands consist of two ribs with a groove between them; the outer rib is smooth, the inner one notched. The back of the pendant is smooth. The front is partially gilded; the “skulls” of the bull’s heads and the horns are left unpainted. There is slight wear on the gilding along the edges of the eyelet and on raised areas. Otherwise, it is in excellent condition. Height 4.5 cm. Width 4 cm. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Provenance: Private collection in southern Germany, acquired in the late 1990s from the collector’s father’s collection. Condition: I -