Mystery solved? The decoration is exceedingly similar to the animal head terminals on the horse harness bows from Møllemosegård and Søllested, with some apparent creative liberties taken by the artist. Many thanks to @trixranderson.bsky.social!
Making a Warrior
Today's vikingism: this image of a 'Norse Decoration' by William Gibb († 1929), listed as the prow ornament of a viking ship. Unclear which (mock-)historical figurehead, if any, this is based on. Any guesses?
(National Galleries of Scotland, D 4068)
