Link chain 41 cm, bronze
£ 14 Incl. VAT
Silver chain necklace 51 cm
£ 53 Incl. VAT
Cord for pendants, leather
£ 2 Incl. VAT
Leather pouch, black
£ 7 Incl. VAT
Money purse, red
£ 9 Incl. VAT

Product description

The gold bracteate was discovered in 1852 near Køge on the southeastern coast of the Danish island of Zealand, along with an identical piece. It dates back to the Iron Age, specifically between 450 and 570 AD. The most distinctive feature of this bracteate is the depiction of a figure on horseback in the centre, which is believed to represent the Norse god Odin (or Wotan) with his horse, Sleipnir.

The original bracteate features a surrounding row of runes, which may be interpreted as either "Hariuha is my name, the traveller. I give protection on the journey" or "I am called Hariuha. Knowing misfortune, I bring good fortune." Hariuha is likely another name for Odin, as he is known in Germanic mythology to adopt various epithets whilst travelling amongst people to avoid immediate recognition.

This bracteate is currently housed in the Danish National Museum in Copenhagen. The term "bracteate" comes from the Latin word "bractea," meaning a thin disc. The Germanic bracteates were modelled after Roman medals depicting emperors, yet differed in that they were struck only on one side. These amulets were likely employed by the Germanic tribes as symbols of luck and were possibly awarded to deserving warriors.

Product details

Product details:

Material: bronze

Dimensions: 3 x 3.5 cm

Based on a historic original

Shipment weight (grams): 100