In Novgorod, found a medieval amulet in the form of a bird

Veliky Novgorod is a real find for archaeologists. It was the center of the Novgorod lands, which were always distinguished by independence and trade and cultural ties with other countries. And thanks to its remote position, the city minimally experienced the 13th century Mongol invasion, preserving unique cultural monuments. Recently, a unique medieval bronze amulet in the form of a bird was discovered in Novgorod. This is the first such amulet found in these places.

Bronze bird

The bird was found at the Trinity XV excavation in the layer of the beginning of the XIII century. A pendant in the form of a duck foot is attached to the body of a bird on a chain. Such pendants are distinguished by a comb on the head of the bird. Previously, they met archaeologists in Ladoga (near Ladoga and Belozersky scales), in the Vologda, Arkhangelsk and some other areas, but only as single specimens.

More often, amulets of this type were found in the lands of settlements of Finno-Ugric peoples. In Novgorod, such a suspension was found for the first time. It was found in a log house, which will more accurately determine the age of this jewelry. Such pendants were made using the wax casting technique. Due to production technology, as well as considering the “paws” hanging on the chain that rang when moving, such amulets are called “hollow noisy amulets”.

Female magic

Researchers are sure that the suspension found is a female amulet. Such a function was performed by all zoomorphic amulets, scientists say. Their hunch is confirmed by the fact that such jewelry was never found in men's graves.

Photo: Novgorod State United Museum-Reserve

They are usually found on the chest, near the thigh, on the belt, or on the deceased's pelvic bones. The fact that the amulets were placed on the thigh or belt indicates that they were used as magical devices associated with the reproductive function of women. Apparently, this was their main purpose, because decorative jewelry "for beauty" was usually worn in the upper part of the body - on the head, arms or chest.