An incomplete cast copper-alloy cruciform type brooch of Early Anglo-Saxon attribution, probably dating c. AD 450-500. The brooch demonstrates a small rectangular headplate with an integrally cast facetted knop projecting from its upper edge. On the back of the head, a lump of ferrous corrosion product reflects the remains of the pin lug and accompanying pin. The bow is facetted in section, curving strongly in profile towards the straightened foot. The latter is coincident with the catchplate, which is preserved completely intact and curves to the left when viewed from behind. The foot itself demonstrates a moulded zoomorphic terminal in the form of a horse's head, with flared nostrils and bulbous eyes. Condition: very good, dark brownish patina, small piece of catchplate broken out. Length: c. 110mm. Discussion: this brooch is probably best assigned to Martin (2015) group 1, a less common form of cruciform brooch with a smaller headplate. Brooches of this form are known to have been worn both in life and death, as elements of grave furniture and conventional dress accessories. Provenance: from the collection of a metal detectorist. Reference: Martin, T. 2015. The Cruciform Brooch and Early Anglo-Saxon England. Woodbridge: Boydell and Brewer press.
An incomplete cast copper-alloy cruciform type brooch of Early Anglo-Saxon attribution, probably dating c. AD 450-500. The brooch demonstrates a small rectangular headplate with an integrally cast facetted knop projecting from its upper edge. On the back of the head, a lump of ferrous corrosion product reflects the remains of the pin lug and accompanying pin. The bow is facetted in section, curving strongly in profile towards the straightened foot. The latter is coincident with the catchplate, which is preserved completely intact and curves to the left when viewed from behind. The foot itself demonstrates a moulded zoomorphic terminal in the form of a horse's head, with flared nostrils and bulbous eyes. Condition: very good, dark brownish patina, small piece of catchplate broken out. Length: c. 110mm. Discussion: this brooch is probably best assigned to Martin (2015) group 1, a less common form of cruciform brooch with a smaller headplate. Brooches of this form are known to have been worn both in life and death, as elements of grave furniture and conventional dress accessories. Provenance: from the collection of a metal detectorist. Reference: Martin, T. 2015. The Cruciform Brooch and Early Anglo-Saxon England. Woodbridge: Boydell and Brewer press.
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
