Knife Suspension Ring in Serpent form from Birka Sax

This suspension ring was found on knife scabbards in Birka, attaching sax scabbards to their hanging strap. I thought it had such a lovely smooth form that it would be interesting to make. ( I have also put a pin in it for use as a brooch - see Brooches and Pins section).

The serpent occurs often in Viking art. It is a symbol of renewal – a snake sheds its skin and is reborn. It is also a symbol of the regenarating force of nature – the great Midgard Serpent, Jormungandr, surrounds the earth and bites its own tail.

Width 42mm