Description:

Northern Europe, Viking or Anglo-Saxon culture, ca. 7th to 11th century CE An iron spear head ritualistically bent or "killed" in a symbolic manner consistent with Viking and Anglo Saxon burial / deposits. The reason behind making weapons virtually useless is still uncertain, but the practice may have prevented grave robbers from profiting off a quality weapon they stole. Anglo Saxon weapons have been found both bent and deposited in rivers to ensure they did not fall into the wrong hands. If the deceased person was an enemy, they would also be unable to use this spear in the afterlife! Size: 6" L x 1.5" W (15.2 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: private Englewood, Colorado USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#176020

  • Condition: Purposefully bent blade as shown. Tear to socketing shaft opening. Heavy patina and surface pitting. Mineral and earthen encrustations.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

January 29, 2023 9:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000