In Finnish mythology, the bear was the sacred king of animals and leader of the forest. It was both feared and deeply revered by old Finnish tribes. Today the bear is Finland’s national animal and among the best-known national symbols. This necklace with seven bears was designed by Kaisaleena Mäkelä in the 1990s. It was inspired by an Iron Age bronze item depicting a bear. Anchor chain, adjustable length 40/45 cm. The reverse side of the bears is unpatterned.