9th-12th century AD. A firesteel comprising a rectangular iron block with striking face mounted in a bifacial openwork bronze handle formed as two large ravens perching with necks bent over a bull's head(?"). Cf. Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gr?ber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.144. 40 grams, 54mm (2"). From the family collection of a UK gentleman, by descent in the early 1970s; previously acquired before 1960. [No Reserve] Fine condition.