LOT 1761

Anglo-Saxon and Viking Bronze Artefact Collection

5TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.

1 1/4 - 2 1/2 in. (85 grams total, 30-65 mm).

Comprising: a plain Roman lanceolate strap end; a strap end with an animal head terminal and interlaced design, two rivet holes (9th century A.D.); a strap end, with multiple interlock animals, two rivet holes (9th century A.D.); a strap end, banded with vertical design (9th century A.D.); a tongue-shaped strap end with a design representing a tree, central boss surrounded by repeated radiate design, three rivet holes; a wolf or dragon head copper stirrup terminal; a round openwork knife's pommel. [7, No Reserve]

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

Bailey, G., Detector Finds 7, Witham, 2011, pp.77, for the 9th century Anglo-Saxon strap ends (figs.5-6-7); p.83, for the Viking tongue-shaped terminal.

The decoration of the military belts included metal strap ends, which were fixed to the end of the belts and formed of protection and acted as a weighted terminal. Strap ends were multi-purpose in function, used primarily in pairs for waist belts, baldrics and horse harnesses.