9th C. Viking Bronze Brooch Borre Type w/ Ravens

Northern Europe, Viking or Norse Culture, ca. 9th to 10th century CE. A remarkable cast bronze borre type brooch with relief motifs across the surface. The brooch is a domed or turtle shell shaped with a palmette and curving motifs across the surface. The motifs are stylized representations of two birds, perhaps the ravens that report to the god Odin. On the concave verso is a hook catch and two transverse bars. The surface has been professionally cleaned and retains the wonderful green patina. Size: 2.5" L x 1.6" W (6.4 cm x 4.1 cm)

For a similar example please see Hildebrand, H. Kongl. "Vitterhets Historie Och Antiqvitets Akademiens Manadsblad," Stockholm, 1876, Fig. 82.

Arbman, H. "Birka I: Die Graber," Uppsala, 1940, Fig. 151

Provenance: private Carmichael, California, USA collection, acquired in 2019; ex-Timeline Auctions, London, UK; ex-property of a professional collector, acquired prior to 1990

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#166085
Condition Report: Professionally cleaned and the motifs are sharp with only minor softening of details. Age expected surface pitting and pinhead sized perforation through edge of brooch. Nice green patina.