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Elf Cross amulet from Skåne
Unknown1700/1900
Nordiska Museet
Stockholm, Sweden
Details
- Title: Elf Cross amulet from Skåne
- Creator: Unknown
- Date Created: 1700/1900
- Physical Dimensions: w4.4 x h4.4 cm
- More Information: Preventive protection of this kind was traditionally used in folk medicine in the form of signs, words and symbols, or objects, materials and substances, that for some reason had been attributed spiritual powers. The elf cross was considered to protect against diseases, the causes of which were attributed to Ellen, a water spirit, who, like elves, was said to be able to cause a variety of diseases. Their bad breath, the elf wind, was said to cause rashes and skin diseases. Elves were also supposed to be responsible for severe pains and to affect the psyche negatively. To offer protection, the elf cross had to be manufactured and handed over to the owner in accordance with special ceremonies. The silver had to be collected by begging in the neighbourhood according to special rules which depended on the gender of the intended wearer, and the smith was not allowed to be paid for his work. The cross, which was worn next to the skin, under clothes and invisible to others, was marked with Christian symbols in the form of a sun cross, a Christ monogram, a prayer for help and the wearer's initials. It was given to newborn babies, confirmands and adults who were already ill or in need of special protection. An elf cross could not be sold but was taken by the wearer to their grave.
- Type: Traditions
- Rights: Photo: Jessica Karlsson, © Nordiska museet
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