LOT 1841

Anglo-Norman and Medieval Gilt Bronze Artefact Collection

6TH-15TH CENTURY A.D.

1 - 2 1/2 in. (35 grams total, 27-65 mm).

Comprising: a 6th century Dark Age round gilded brooch; a 15th century medieval bronze swivel hook with domed shaped gilded top; and a 11th-12th century copper-alloy chape with plain top half, the lower part ending in a wolf’s head covered with small indentations and raised ears, with a small suspension loop on the snout. [3, No Reserve]

From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.

Bailey, G., Detector finds 6, Witham, 2008, pp.3,5-6, fig.C1.12, for the gilded swivel hook or stud; Bailey, G., Detector finds 7, Witham, 2011, fig.28, p.102, for the medieval strap end.

Cf. Bailey, G., Detector finds 7, Witham, 2011, fig.3a&b, p.103, for similar medieval gilded studs.

Most of the strap ends recovered in Britain date from the 12th century onwards, this being the period when they were widely used by both men and women. The strap end was made from various metals including bronze, copper (normally gilded, silvered or tinned) pewter, tin, silver, gold and iron. Our specimen, probably dated to 11th-12th century A.D., continue the style of the Anglo-Viking beast mounts of the previous centuries.