Ormgudinna, The Lady of Beasts or The Mistress of animals, as she is sometimes referred to, is a fourth century stone carving of an unknown Norse Goddess. She usually appears with serpents in each hand, possibly linking her to the ancient Babylonian Goddess Ishtar, or to the Cretan Bee Goddess. She is probably a creatrix (a female who brings forth or produces, i.e a mother) as she is posed in a birthing position. In the original, carving there is a triskele above her head. It is made up of the three animals emblematic of the Celtic domains of existence: the boar, representing the earth; the snake, an emblem of water; the bird, representing the sky. This item comes with an adjustable length black cord with velvet gift bag, a certificate explaining the meaning behind the symbology and a care leaflet. Cleansed and blessed for strength, health, and protection from the Old Norse Gods and the Viking Ancestors, by the North Sea at Tynemouth, Northumberland, England at the site of the invasion of Northumbria in 875 AD by Halfdene, first King of the Kingdom of Jorvik (York). Unless otherwise stated your piece will come coated in a tough invisible transparent lacquer to protect the finish however over time and depending on how its treated this coating may break down. As such, depending on your body chemistry and atmospheric conditions this piece may leave a harmless greenish deposit on the skin. This is easily washed off and can be minimized by keeping it clean and dry or lacquering/waxing it yourself. Non-UK customers. Please note your country may charge import duty, VAT or other taxes on foreign imports. We are in no way accountable or responsible for this and the payment of any such charges are solely the buyer’s responsibility. We suggest you familiarize yourself with your country’s import regulations before ordering to avoid any unpleasant surprises.