Unusual Hallmark part of investigation in Finland

[Tero T]

Good Day!
I am coming to this forum from another history forum called Axis History forum. On this forum has been a post regarding an investigation in Finland on bodies unearthed in the past month. Originally the dig was in response to rumors of executions during WWII. When the remains were dug up various icons were found on the bodies. They appear to be from a much older period of time. In particular a Orthodox icon silver pendant with what appears to be a hallmark embossed on the lower edge. To my eyes it appears to be the face of an animal possibly a cat. I thought I would bring this to the hallmark experts to see if this could be identified and what era it is from . Attached is the forum thread link and a link to the picture. I am sorry that I could not figure out how to get the hallmark pic (pic #2) into this posting. It would only be an enlargement of the existing photo (link attached) FYI , You have an excellent forum
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Regards Tero Tuononen Toronto Canada



http://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic. ... 870#973870

[Bahner]

Hello, this mark (lion's head ?) does not look like a Finnish or Russian hallmark. Best wishes, Bahner.

[admin]

Hi,
There may be another mark on the right side of the base of the cross. If the piece was cleaned a bit, (suggest a dry soft toothbrush) this mark and the other may come clearer and enable an identification.
Regards, Tom

[Tero T]

Thank you for the info. If you read the other forum thread the thought that these bodies are from an earlier period , as early as mid 1700's is possible. I will keep you posted if more info arrives. Thx again Tero T