Early Medieval / Viking-Age “The Sacred Drop of the North” — Rare Polychrome Glass-Paste Amulet (No reserve price)

An exceptionally decorative bronze pendant of attributed Early Medieval / Viking-Age character, distinguished by its unusual tear-drop form and striking arrangement of coloured glass-paste inlays.

The pendant is constructed around a strongly defined bronze framework. At its centre is a large tear- or eye-shaped compartment, filled with pale glass paste and enclosing a smaller circular central element. Surrounding it is a constellation of smaller circular and oval cells containing contrasting tones of creamy white, warm ochre-yellow and pale blue-green.

The resulting composition has an almost celestial appearance: a central “eye” surrounded by smaller luminous discs. Whether these elements originally carried a specific protective, solar or symbolic meaning cannot now be established with certainty, but the design gives the pendant a powerful talismanic character.

Particularly beautiful is the contrast between the colourful surviving inlays and the deep green and earthy bronze surface, which emphasizes both the age-inspired character and intricate construction of the piece.

Its asymmetrical tear-drop or paisley-like silhouette makes it especially unusual compared with the more familiar circular and cross-shaped medieval pendants.

Culture/Period: Early Medieval / Viking Age, attributed
Date: approximately 9th–11th century AD, attribution
Object: Decorative amulet / pendant
Material: Bronze with polychrome glass-paste inlays
Form: Curved tear-drop / paisley-shaped pendant
Decoration: Central eye/tear motif surrounded by multiple circular and oval coloured cells
Colours: Cream-white, ochre-yellow and pale blue-green
Condition: Age-related surface wear and patination; various inlays survive with irregularities and losses consistent with the appearance shown. Please examine all photographs carefully.
Presentation: Fitted with a modern suspension ring and silver chain for wearable presentation; these modern elements are not part of the historical object.

The combination of bronze, colour and the mysterious central eye-like composition gives this pendant extraordinary visual presence — a small object that feels simultaneously ornamental and talismanic.