Viking period silver “Odin with two birds” pendant

The object in detail.

Viking period silver pendant, dating 10th-11th century AD. It depicts the image of Odin peering out from between two skeletal birds, Hugin and Munin (Thought and Memory), his arms around the necks and he’s clutching them by the breast. The bodies of both birds appear to be representing shields, this could symbolize Odin taking the bodies of men fallen in battle. Odin was also called All-father because he was the father of all gods, he was also known as Valfather (father of the slain) because all who fell in battle became his adopted sons.

Size: 28×20 mm
Weight: 8 g

Provenance: Till the 1980s in the private Belgian collection of B.S. Since the 1980s in the private British collection of D.A. Was bought by the current owner in 2016 from A.A. in London, UK, who had owned the item since 2011.

As it stands today.

Offered in stable, well-preserved condition consistent with its age and burial history. Surfaces retain their original character; no modern restoration beyond conservation-grade stabilisation.

A full condition report, additional photographs and the certificate of authenticity are supplied to the buyer. Independent analysis can be arranged on request prior to purchase.