Viking Age Patrix Die with Figure
Circa 9th century A.D. A Moravian sub-triangular copper-alloy patrix die displaying a stylised standing figure to the upper face, in orans pose, ring-and-dot and other symbols in the field. Cf. Dekan, J., Moravia Magna, The Great Moravian Empire, its Art and Times, fig.103, 105, 114, for similar images of orantes. 41.5 grams, 43 mm (1 5/8 in.). Acquired before 2000.From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK. The Great Moravian Empire, Christianised by East Frankish missionaries and later experienced significant cultural development under King Rastislav, with the arrival of the mission of Saints Cyril and Methodius in 863 A.D., developed its own artistic style under the influence of Carolingian Empire and Eastern Roman Empire. The images of praying saints, similar to our figure, are evident on belt plate decorations, where the image of the suppliant with open hands and long talaris tunica is often repeated. If the two stylised figures are interpreted as lions, the patrix die could possibly represent the Biblical story of Daniel in the lion’s cave.