Early Medieval / Viking-Age “The Sacred Cipher” — Enigmatic Bronze Openwork Amulet (No reserve price)
04
days
00
hours
00
minutes
49
seconds
Current bid
€ 32
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
 | €32 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €29 | |
| €3 | |
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 143362 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
The Sacred Cipher — Enigmatic Bronze Openwork Amulet is an original Viking‑Age bronze pendant dating to circa the 9th–11th century, featuring a symmetrical silhouette with eye‑like circular openings and a heart‑shaped lower aperture, acquired from an auction house in the Netherlands in 2025.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
An extraordinary bronze openwork ornament of Viking-inspired character, distinguished by its highly unusual symmetrical silhouette, intricate geometric construction and mysterious mask-like appearance.
The upper section features two prominent circular openings, creating a striking pair of eye-like forms. Beneath them, an elongated central body is enriched with a raised vertical ridge, leading towards a triangular aperture framed by two outward-curling ornamental projections.
The lower section terminates in an elegant heart-shaped opening, completing a fascinating composition of circles, curves, triangular geometry and carefully balanced negative spaces.
The contrast between the decorated front and the comparatively plain reverse further emphasises the object's sculptural character.
Symbolism — The Sacred Cipher
The unusual arrangement invites a symbolic interpretation inspired by the mysterious visual language of early northern European ornament.
The paired circular openings may evoke watchfulness and awareness, while the opposing scrolls suggest movement, balance and the meeting of complementary forces.
The central triangle can be interpreted as a symbol of stability and connection, while the heart-shaped lower opening introduces an evocative association with life, continuity and renewal.
Together, these elements create an imaginative interpretation of a protective talisman — a symbolic guardian representing vigilance, harmony and the mysteries of destiny.
An Intriguing Wearable Ornament
The openwork construction gives the pendant an elegant appearance despite its elaborate outline.
Its greenish-brown bronze surface, contrasting highlights and distinctive silhouette make it an eye-catching example of historical-inspired jewellery.
Illustrated suspended from a silver-coloured chain, this unusual piece will appeal to collectors of enigmatic geometric ornaments, Viking-inspired designs and symbolic bronze pendants.
An extraordinary bronze openwork ornament of Viking-inspired character, distinguished by its highly unusual symmetrical silhouette, intricate geometric construction and mysterious mask-like appearance.
The upper section features two prominent circular openings, creating a striking pair of eye-like forms. Beneath them, an elongated central body is enriched with a raised vertical ridge, leading towards a triangular aperture framed by two outward-curling ornamental projections.
The lower section terminates in an elegant heart-shaped opening, completing a fascinating composition of circles, curves, triangular geometry and carefully balanced negative spaces.
The contrast between the decorated front and the comparatively plain reverse further emphasises the object's sculptural character.
Symbolism — The Sacred Cipher
The unusual arrangement invites a symbolic interpretation inspired by the mysterious visual language of early northern European ornament.
The paired circular openings may evoke watchfulness and awareness, while the opposing scrolls suggest movement, balance and the meeting of complementary forces.
The central triangle can be interpreted as a symbol of stability and connection, while the heart-shaped lower opening introduces an evocative association with life, continuity and renewal.
Together, these elements create an imaginative interpretation of a protective talisman — a symbolic guardian representing vigilance, harmony and the mysteries of destiny.
An Intriguing Wearable Ornament
The openwork construction gives the pendant an elegant appearance despite its elaborate outline.
Its greenish-brown bronze surface, contrasting highlights and distinctive silhouette make it an eye-catching example of historical-inspired jewellery.
Illustrated suspended from a silver-coloured chain, this unusual piece will appeal to collectors of enigmatic geometric ornaments, Viking-inspired designs and symbolic bronze pendants.
Details
Culture
Early Medieval / Viking-Age
Century/timeframe
circa 9th–11th century AD
Name of object
“The Sacred Cipher” — Enigmatic Bronze Openwork Amulet
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
2025
Country acquired from
Netherlands
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1996
Previous owner - country acquired from
Netherlands
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
