Recently Sold (PGP182)

Norseman's Devotion - Ancient 8th-11th century Viking bronze heart cross pendant.  This wonderful cross is crafted from bronze, featuring beautiful detail and design.  The cross has a raised design with hearts on the ends of the cross, the back of the cross also has this design, which is worn from wear throughout the ages.  The substantial Ancient piece displays a beautiful much desired aged green patina, and a solid bale.  The pendant has been matched up to a contemporary bronze chain and bale.  This very special artifact would make a perfect gift or addition to any collection. 

The Viking Age (793–1066 AD) was the period during the Middle Ages when Norsemen known as Vikings undertook large-scale raiding, colonizing, conquest and trading throughout Europe, and reached North America. It followed the Migration Period and the Germanic Iron Age.

As King of Wessex at the age of 21, Alfred (reigned 871-99) was a strongminded but highly strung battle veteran at the head of remaining resistance to the Vikings in southern England. ... In May 878, Alfred'sarmy defeated the Danes at the battle of Edington.

The events of 1066 in England effectively marked the end of the Viking Age. By that time, all of the Scandinavian kingdoms were Christian, and what remained of Viking “culture” was being absorbed into the culture of Christian Europe. 

The final Viking invasion of England came in 1066, when Harald Hardrada sailed up the River Humber and marched to Stamford Bridge with his men. His battle banner was called Land-waster. The English king, Harold Godwinson, marched north with his army and defeated Hardrada in a long and bloody battle.

Note: This example is in a very fine state of preservation.  Museum quality. 

Artifacts are luxury items, they can be worn with care.  To clean, use damp cloth with water only (not saturated) and pat dry immediately with soft cloth. 

Measurements: Pendant (including bale) 52.00 mm x 28.00mm   Chain 20"  Note: 18" chain available if preferred. 

Weight: 11.90  grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Northern Europe  Provenance: Private collection 

Date: 8th-11th Century