Northern Europe, Viking / Norse culture, ca. 10th century CE. A stunning necklace featuring an amazing solid silver pendant in the form of a coiled snake - the silver of extremely high quality (97%-99% silver) - suspended from a long, densely woven silver Trichinopoly chain - also known as "Viking knit." The snake's head emerges from the center of the pendant and hangs down, with defined eyes that may once have had a small inlay like a garnet or enamel. The rest of the body coils sinuously around itself, drawing our eyes along its curves and loops. The snake's tail, rests in coils beneath the head. The pendant is attached to the Trichinopoly chain via a loop that interlocks with a silver wire coiled loop extending from the hammered silver sheet terminal wrapped around the lower end of the Trichinopoly chain and handsomely adorned by stamped triangular and circular motifs favored by the Vikings. Size: chain is 32" L (81.3 cm); pendant measures 2.5" L x 1.5" W (6.4 cm x 3.8 cm); Weight: 181.4 grams; Precious metal composition: 97%-99% silver.

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 Jörmungandr. 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. Multiple Viking picture stones have been found depicting this story, including one from as early as the late 8th century. This serpent pendant may recall that story.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection

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#139868

Chain has some areas of bending, but in general is in excellent condition. Small fissure and loss to upper end of hammered chain terminal. Attractive age patina has developed over the ages.