An incomplete cast copper-alloy gilt and enamel cloisonné disc brooch of the 'Saunderton' type, dating to the Late Early Medieval period, c. 900-1100. The brooch is broadly circular in plan, with high-flanged sides and a total of seven rounded knops extending from its sides (though only two survive complete). The interior of the brooch on its front face is decorated with a background of glassy deep blue enamel, set within which are two yellowy inwardly-facing triangles flanking four teardrop-shaped inserts of alternating turqoise and white that perhaps are intended to represent the petals of a stylised flower. The copper-alloy 'cloisons' or wire borders separating these disparate elements are preserved intact, though rather corroded. The two surviving lugs also demonstrate enamel inlays, both the same deep blue and presumably replicated in the now damaged lugs as well. Condition: some corrosion and damage, inlays well preserved. Diameter: c. 22mm. Discussion: Saunderton type brooches are known quite widely in Britain, though have a distinct focus towards East Anglia. Made to standardised designs and produced in large numbers, they are also known from Dennmark. Provenance: from the collection of a metal detectorist.
An incomplete cast copper-alloy gilt and enamel cloisonné disc brooch of the 'Saunderton' type, dating to the Late Early Medieval period, c. 900-1100. The brooch is broadly circular in plan, with high-flanged sides and a total of seven rounded knops extending from its sides (though only two survive complete). The interior of the brooch on its front face is decorated with a background of glassy deep blue enamel, set within which are two yellowy inwardly-facing triangles flanking four teardrop-shaped inserts of alternating turqoise and white that perhaps are intended to represent the petals of a stylised flower. The copper-alloy 'cloisons' or wire borders separating these disparate elements are preserved intact, though rather corroded. The two surviving lugs also demonstrate enamel inlays, both the same deep blue and presumably replicated in the now damaged lugs as well. Condition: some corrosion and damage, inlays well preserved. Diameter: c. 22mm. Discussion: Saunderton type brooches are known quite widely in Britain, though have a distinct focus towards East Anglia. Made to standardised designs and produced in large numbers, they are also known from Dennmark. Provenance: from the collection of a metal detectorist.
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