Viking Era Big Fibula or Oval Brooch (Type Petersen 51)

Rare large shield-shaped brooch – Vendel to Viking Age, 8th–10th century AD – With traces of gilding sending ONLY in the EU ! Cultural area: Scandinavia / North Germanic area Dating: 8th–10th century AD (Vendel to Viking Age) Type: Large oval shield-shaped brooch Material: Metal, presumably a copper alloy/bronze Length: approx. 10.1 cm Special feature: Visible traces of gilding on the inner side Conservation: Ancient, age-appropriate condition with clear signs of use, corrosion traces and areas of material loss Description For sale is an exceptional and rare large shield-shaped brooch from the North Germanic cultural area, dated to the period between the 8th and 10th centuries AD. This impressive dress brooch belongs stylistically to the transition from the Vendel Age to the Viking Age and impresses with its size, its elaborately designed ornamentation, and its archaic aura. With a length of about 10.1 cm, the piece has a remarkable presence. The oval shape is defined by a plastically developed, multi-component decoration with flowing lines, concentric motifs, and geometrically divided ornament fields. The design provides a striking insight into the artisanal traditions of early medieval Scandinavia. Particularly noteworthy are the remaining traces of gilding visible on the inner side. These traces suggest that the surface was originally more elaborately finished. Shield brooches were among the characteristic jewelry and clothing components of the Scandinavian Iron Age and Viking Age. Comparable brooches are known especially from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, as well as from the North Germanic region. They served not only to fasten clothing but also as an expression of status, regional tradition, and personal jewelry taste. Condition Ancient condition with clear age-related signs. There is corrosion, surface loss, and damage. On the inner side, traces of gilding are still visible. Please refer to the attached photographs documenting the current state of preservation. Shipping only within the European Union. Oval Viking Brooch The Oval Viking Brooch (compare with Type Petersen 51) The depicted tortoiseshell or bowl brooch exhibits the features of type Petersen 51 (P 51), the most widespread and iconic type of female dress accessory from the 10th century Viking Age. Visual Characteristics and ConstructionShape and profile: The brooch features a domed, convex oval shape. The lower perimeter is finished with a raised, notched or beaded rim. Ornamentation and layout: The surface is segmented into distinct panels by contoured ridges adorned with diagonal hatching or herringbone patterns. Prominent round medallions and teardrop-shaped fields enclose stylized relief figures and mythical animal heads. Bosses: Raised knobs sit at structural junctions and along the borders, giving depth to the cast bronze surface. Double shell construction: P 51 brooches were originally manufactured as two-piece castings, consisting of an inner backplate topped with an openwork decorative cover plate fixed in place with small rivets. Historical Function and WearWorn in pairs: These fibulae were invariably worn in matching pairs, positioned symmetrically on the chest just below the shoulders.Securing the apron dress: An iron or bronze pin on the hollow reverse secured the shoulder loops of the woolen overdress (the apron dress or hangerock) over the linen underdress.Connecting festoons: Strands of glass, carnelian, or amber beads were frequently strung between the two brooches. In addition, lower loops were used to hang small chains holding functional tools, such as sewing needles, scissors, ear spoons, or keys.Typology and Significance In his 1928 classification Vikingetidens smykker, Norwegian archaeologist Jan Petersen documented that this single type accounts for almost half of all recovered Viking oval brooches. They were cast in large numbers across major Scandinavian trading hubs (such as Kaupang, Birka, and Hedeby) using the lost-wax method.Wearing such elaborate bronze brooches indicated the social standing of a free, respected woman of the household (húsfreyja) and remains the defining element for modern historical reconstructions of female Viking dress.

Estimation:3.500€

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