Northern Europe, Viking / Norse culture, ca. late 9th century CE. A fantastical solid silver brooch in the form of a coiled snake, the curves of its body interlacing through and around itself. The snake's head grasps the tail in its large mouth, with defined eyes that may once have had a small inlay like a garnet or enamel. On the back is a pin and clasp, with the pin held in place by a simple hinge. The serpent's body is decorated with repeated stamped circles. Size: 2.3" W x 1.5" H (5.8 cm x 3.8 cm); 39.2 grams

The serpent form may relate to the Norse myth of Jormungandr (Jormungand), the Midgard Serpent, a child of Loki and a giantess who according to legend grew so large that it was able to surround the earth and grasp its own tail, forming an ouroboros. According to legend, when it releases its tail, Ragnarok - the final battle of the gods that will result in Earth becoming completely covered in water - will begin. One of the most popular motifs in Norse art concerns the story of Thor and Jormungandr. In classic Thor style, he sets off on a reckless fishing expedition, taking the head of an ox as his bait, and sails further out to sea than he should. With a large hook and the ox head, he catches Jormungandr, who surfaces, poison and blood dripping from his mouth. Thor's fishing companion, the giant Hymir, quickly cuts Thor's line before he can slay the serpent with his hammer and Jormungandr sinks beneath the waves, the threat at bay - for the moment.

Provenance: private New York, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#129283

Patina on surface with excellent preserved details. Pin on back is slightly bent and may be an early replacement.