Bronze band bracelet – a rare artifact from the Viking Age (8th–11th century AD) METHOD OF MANUFACTURE AND MATERIAL Craftsmanship: The object was created in a traditional workshop through an initial metal casting, which was then cold-hammered by a blacksmith artisan to form a resilient and wide band. Alloy: The ornament was made of ancient bronze. This copper-tin alloy features high density, thanks to which the item has preserved its full structure and form through the centuries. ORNAMENTATION: ALONG THE CIRCUMFERENCE AND ON THE ENDS Main decoration: A dense, perfectly laid out pattern of horizontal, parallel grooves runs along the entire length of the bracelet, giving the whole piece a unique texture. Edge decoration: At the ends of the open hoop, the linear pattern transitions into transverse, vertical bands of fine, dotted hatching. This detail, incised with a graver, aesthetically closes the composition at the split of the bracelet. Cultural identification: The decorative motifs applied to the surface, the precise engraving, and the overall form of execution and finishing of details clearly indicate that this is an authentic Viking Age bracelet. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE Social status: In Scandinavian culture, such magnificent jewelry was not a mere ornament. It testified to the high social standing, wealth, and prestige of the person who wore it. Warrior symbol: A wide, massive bracelet could serve as a highly important symbol for a Viking warrior. Such items were often bestowed by chieftains as a token of recognition for battle merits, loyalty, and bravery, standing as a proud testament to his position in the warband. VISUAL FEATURES OF AUTHENTICITY AND CONDITION Dimensions and condition: The artifact is of considerable size, massive and tall, which beautifully showcases its rich texture. The object is excellently preserved and is in very good condition – the metal is fully stable, with no modern damage or structural defects. Noble patina: The surface of the metal is covered with an original, matte malachite patina of a deep, dark green hue with natural, earthy oxide layers. Originality: The natural mineral accretion is inextricably bonded with the metal substrate and penetrates deeply into the engraved grooves and micro-cracks. Such a surface condition occurs solely as a result of centuries-long burial of the object in the ground, which completely rules out modern methods of artificial aging. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION Type: Wide band bracelet (open) Chronology: Viking Age (8th–11th century AD) / Nordic influence Period Cultural Area: Baltic Sea basinInner Inner diameter: 54 mm (corresponds to a circumference of 17 cm) Outer diameter: 62 mm (corresponds to a circumference of 19.5 cm) Weight: 33 g Documentation. Certificate: A certificate of authenticity is attached to the object, containing detailed information that describes the item typologically by myself and previously by experts from Belgium, as well as confirming its origin. Provenance: British art gallery 1970s. British colection 1970s./2000s. European collection 2000s Acquired from Karabela Arms (Karabela Ltd), an antique dealer based in London 59 Devons Road