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Todas las subastas / Arte Antiguo / Viking Era Silver Amulet
A rare and exceptionally decorative Viking Age silver lunula pendant, enriched with a Christian cross and extensive granulation, dating approximately to the 10th–11th century — an era of profound cultural and religious transformation in Scandinavia and the wider northern European world. This is far more than a simple cast pendant. Measuring 33 × 26 mm and weighing a substantial 5.43 g, the piece has a remarkable physical presence. Its openwork construction, numerous applied silver granules and distinctive cross at the lower section create an intricate composition with immediate visual impact. Lunula and Cross — Two Symbolic Traditions in One Jewel The principal form is that of a rounded lunula, articulated by two large openwork spaces that create its characteristic crescent-like composition. At the bottom appears a small but clearly recognizable cross, incorporated directly into the structure of the pendant. It is this combination that makes the object particularly fascinating. Lunate ornaments have deep roots within early medieval European decorative traditions, while the cross belongs unmistakably to Christian symbolism. During the 10th and 11th centuries, such forms existed within a world in which older artistic traditions continued while Christianity was rapidly spreading. The coexistence of a traditional lunate form and a Christian cross therefore gives the pendant a particularly evocative character. Without a documented archaeological context, however, the complete composition should not be assigned a more specific religious interpretation. Rich Granulation Work The decoration deserves particular attention. The surface is covered with numerous small spherical silver granules, arranged into borders, triangular formations and individual ornamental clusters. This technique, known as granulation, uses tiny metal spheres to create texture and intricate surface decoration. Rows of granules emphasize both the outer perimeter and the internal openwork spaces. Near the upper centre, numerous small spheres form a striking triangular arrangement, while further clusters decorate the central axis and lower section. Very little of the visible surface was left without ornament. Within an object only 33 mm in size, the craftsman created an extraordinarily rich miniature composition. Silver and Viking Age Craftsmanship Silver occupied a central position in Viking Age material culture. It was used for bracelets, rings, brooches, pendants and amulets, combining intrinsic value with excellent possibilities for sophisticated metalworking. This example is particularly appealing for the complexity of its workmanship. The openwork spaces give visual lightness to the design, the substantial outer body provides strength, and the numerous granules create a constantly changing play of light across the surface. The result is considerably more elaborate than an ordinary cast pendant. An Ornament from an Age of Transformation The 10th and 11th centuries witnessed the gradual Christianization of the Scandinavian world. This transformation did not occur overnight. Traditional forms of jewelry continued to be produced and adapted while new Christian imagery entered the established artistic vocabulary. For this reason, the combination of a lunulate form and a cross is especially evocative. The pendant visually brings together elements associated with different strands of early medieval culture. This does not necessarily mean that its owner consciously combined two religions. Rather, the object reflects an artistic environment shaped by one of the most important cultural transitions in northern European history. Condition The silver retains a naturally aged surface with grey, dark and localized greenish tones. Characteristic traces of age, mineral deposits and some loss to individual decorative elements are visible and consistent with the archaeological character of the piece. Nevertheless, the overall composition remains exceptionally attractive: much of the granulation survives, the openwork structure is clearly defined, the cross remains recognizable and the original upper suspension loop preserves the object's wearable character. Details Culture: Scandinavian / Viking, Early Medieval Tradition Period: Late Viking Age / Christianization Period Dating: 10th–11th Century Object: Lunula Amulet / Pendant with Cross Material: Silver Technique: Casting, openwork and granulation Dimensions: 33 × 26 mm Weight: 5.43 g Decoration: Christian cross, extensive granulation, geometric arrangements and ornamental borders Condition: Authentic ancient condition with natural patina, mineral deposits and age-related wear. Much of the granulated decoration and the principal elements of the composition remain preserved. Provenance: Acquired on the European antiquities market. From a private collection. Shipping: European Union only. Leather cord included. Two Worlds in One Silver Ornament It is the combination of forms that gives this small pendant its remarkable presence. Its body preserves the ancient lunulate form, while the lower section introduces a very different image — the Christian cross. Around them, a medieval silversmith arranged dozens of tiny granules, transforming an object only 33 mm across into an intricate piece of personal jewelry. It belongs to an age when the cultural landscape of northern Europe was changing dramatically. Older artistic forms did not disappear overnight. They survived, evolved and acquired new elements within a changing world. A rare and substantial Viking Age silver lunula with Christian cross and elaborate granulation — a compelling object combining precious-metal craftsmanship, symbolism and the history of cultural transformation in early medieval Europe.
Estimación:€150
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Hammer price:
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Estimación:
€150
¡Lleva tu subasta a coleccionistas de todo el mundo!
Publica ahora€1,623.13
Est.: €1,154.78
€275
