Archaeological amber pendant (scallop)

The fish-shaped amber pendant (amulet) with a V-shaped hole, decorated with a line and twist ornament, came from a Courland man’s grave. Similar amulets were hung near sword handles and scabbards which is why they have a small hole at the narrow end. Such amulets have been found in men’s graves. Around 50 pieces are known to have come from the seaside region. Their magical significance can be confirmed by referring to Lithuanian folklore: in stories, when the hero character is being chased, he throws the amulet over his shoulder whereupon an inpenetrable forest appears behind him.