As with all items in this collection, this artifact is certified authentic and will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity and Provenance, detailing typology, dating, region, and collection history.

Viking Age Bronze "Amphora" Tassel Pendant (800–1050 AD) 29mm Authentic

Authenticity Notice This artifact is certified authentic and will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity and Provenance.

Details: Object: Zoomorphic / Amphora-form Tassel Pendant Culture: Viking Age (Scandinavian / Baltic) Date: Circa 800–1050 AD Material: Bronze (Copper-alloy) Form: Teardrop/Amphora-shaped body with integral suspension loop Height: 29 mm Region: Northern Europe / Baltic Sea Region

Overview: A rare and distinct Viking Age bronze pendant featuring a stylized "amphora" or teardrop form. These pendants were frequently worn in pairs or as part of a larger pectoral "necklace" arrangement suspended between tortoise brooches. The form is thought to be a Germanic interpretation of Mediterranean vessel shapes, repurposed as a protective amulet. The integral loop is positioned at the top of a narrowed "neck," and the base often terminates in a small decorative knob. Such items were essential components of high-status female attire in the Norse and Baltic regions during the 9th to 11th centuries.

Authenticity Check: The surface exhibits a stable, thick archaeological patina with significant "desert" sand mineralizations and cuprite deposits ingrained into the bronze fabric. The suspension loop shows genuine, asymmetrical wear consistent with long-term period use. The casting reveals characteristic Viking-era irregularities and a dense, ancient metal structure. No evidence of modern filing, chemical dipping, or artificial aging.

Comparable Examples:

  1. British Museum, London: Accession No. 1891,1021.78 (Bronze teardrop-shaped pendant, Viking Age, found in Northern Europe).

  2. National Museum of Denmark, Copenhagen: Accession No. C23214 (Bronze "tassel" form pendants from a Viking-era female burial context).

  3. State Historical Museum, Stockholm: Accession No. SHM 31221 (Similar bronze vessel-form pendants recovered from Birka excavations).

Further Reading:

  1. Graham-Campbell, J. – Viking Silver, Hoards and Economy: Refer to Chapter 4 ("Bronze and Base Metal Jewelry"), Section 3, Paragraph 2.1 regarding the evolution of "tassel" and "vessel" form amulets.

  2. Roesdahl, Else – The Vikings: Chapter 12 ("The Viking Way of Life"), Paragraph 5.4 concerning the use of bronze amulets and pendants in Norse female costume.

Condition: Excellent. The artifact is structurally sound and the suspension loop is intact. Exceptional burial patina and surface character. No repairs or restoration.


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