Important, Early Viking broad repoussé Bracteate gold-foil pendant; ribbed loop; depiction of a Gryphon in oval frame. In Viking culture, bracteates probably are derived from Roman portrait medallions, presented by the emperor to forge personal and political alliances. Here, however, the imperial image has been transformed into a depiction of a mythological creature. With their skilful workmanship and allusions to the Romano-Byzantine world, The Viking gold bracteates conveyed both the sophisticated taste and high social status of their female owners, who wore them as fine jewellery and hoarded them as treasure. - 42mm, 5 grams - ca.900-1100AD - From a private collection, acquired in London in the 1970s. - All items come with Free International postage, accompanied by a signed Certificate of Authenticity .