Lot 5
Northwestern Europe, Scandinavia to British Isles, Viking period, ca. 9th to 12th century CE. A splendid silver pendant Mjolnir, the legendary hammer of Thor, the Norse god of thunder. A highly sought-after Viking artifact, partly due to its cultural significance and modern popularity from shows and films, the Mjolnir displays a hammer head of pentagonal form and a long handle that expands at the end were it is pierced and strung with a suspension ring. The obverse features 7 stamped trefoil motifs, while the reverse is left blank, showcasing a simple yet impactful design. Worn as a statement of faith and allegiance to the Viking clan, Thor's hammer symbolized strength, protection, and devotion to Norse traditions. Vikings were known to wear their wealth as jewelry, and while this pendant may reflect modest means, it embodies the wearers pride and cultural identity, serving as both adornment and talisman. Size: 1.5" L x 0.7" W (3.8 cm x 1.8 cm); silver quality: 95.3%; weight: 5.5 grams
Mjolnir pendants were worn as religious amulets throughout the Viking era, symbolizing Thor's protection, strength, and power over storms and battles. Typically made of silver and suspended on silver chains, these amulets were worn by both men and women as powerful emblems of pagan faith and identity, especially during the spread of Christianity across Scandinavia. Some even survived into the Christian era, representing a blend of old and new beliefs. This item has been XRF tested and results are consistent with objects from this region.
Provenance: private London, UK collection; ex-private collection, acquired from a Munich, Germany collection in the 1990s
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#191760
- Condition: Age-expected abrasions to surface, but otherwise, intact, wearable, and in excellent overall condition. Good preservation of stamped decoration and light patina in areas.
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