RARE VIKING PROTECTIVE BROOCH NECKLACE 10th CENTURY

Silvered bronze. Over 1 3/4” diameter. Circular with transverse banding. The top and bottom with the universal shaking hands motif (dexiosis) which is known in the art for at least two millennia. Among Vikings, it was a borrowed artistic symbol probably from the Levant or North Africa.  When fastened to the jerkin, these small metal brooches provided a measure of protection against sword cuts and, in fact, were a form of armor. See current Public Television programming for documentation of these in action. As protectors, they also held spiritual significance for the warrior. Textured from burial. Professionally refurbished with the silver overlay restored and suspended from a Sterling silver mounted polished leather neck cord. Gift boxed with certificate of authenticity.