9th-10th century AD. A silvered bronze bifacial scabbard chape, D-shaped with triangular upper edge; the openwork centre of each face formed with a stylised bird with wings extended to the frame, bird's head in profile to the apex; incised decoration to both faces, feather detailing to the bird's chest, tail and wings. Cf. Paulsen, P. Schwertortbänder der Wikingerzeit, Stuttgart, 1953, in relation to the trading centre on the island of Birka, eastern Sweden; see also Charlotte Hedenstierna-Jonson for the significance of the falcon motif to the society of Birka, particularly with regard to the development of a 'princely family' and its heraldic display, in Rus', Varangians and Birka Warriors (2002"). 24 grams, 64mm (2 1/2"). Property of a lady living in Kent, UK; formerly part of her grandfather's collection; acquired in Germany after WWII; thence by descent 2006. Fine condition.