Description:

Northern Europe, Scandinavia, Viking culture, ca. 9th to 11th century CE. A finely cast silver pendant depicting a stylized female figure, possibly representing the Norse goddess Freyja, rendered in the distinctive abstract style of Viking jewelry. The figure's form is defined by an elegant, hourglass-shaped body incised with geometric details suggestive of a gown or bodice, while her head is crowned with two prominent buns of hair - a feature associated in Scandinavian art with femininity and divine beauty. The figure raises her arms to either side of her head, appearing to grasp or tear at her hair in a dramatic gesture that may symbolize grief, transformation, or ritual power. The goddess Freyja, a central figure in Norse mythology, was the embodiment of love, fertility, beauty, and magic, yet also linked to battle and death through her role as leader of the Valkyries. Size: 0.9" W x 1.3" H (2.3 cm x 3.3 cm); silver quality: 96.7%; weight: 4.7 grams

Such pendants may have served as personal amulets invoking her protection or favor, blending spiritual devotion with adornment. The stylized linear motifs incised across the body evoke the broader Viking aesthetic - one that balanced bold abstraction with symbolic storytelling. Rich with mythological resonance and superb craftsmanship, this pendant encapsulates the dynamic interplay between art, faith, and identity in the Viking world, where jewelry often served as both ornament and talisman.

Provenance: ex-T.F. Holy Lands collection, formed since the 1960s

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#198187

  • Condition: Light surface wear, but, otherwise, intact and wearable with an excellent presentation and good remaining detail.

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October 17, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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