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_900x900.jpg "Anglo-Saxon Gilt Bronze Double-Axe Shield Mount")
_200x200.jpg "Anglo-Saxon Gilt Bronze Double-Axe Shield Mount")
.jpg "Anglo-Saxon Gilt Bronze Double-Axe Shield Mount")
LOT 1339
Anglo-Saxon Gilt Bronze Double-Axe Shield Mount
6TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.
1 3/4 in. (7.5 grams, 45 mm).
With lozengiform central element and T-shaped 'axe' extensions; the lozenge with three-band collars, punched bands to the edges and central quatrefoil motif with pellets to the ends; two thick mounting lugs to the reverse, one with its mounting rove in place.
ProvenanceFound Hertfordshire, UK.
LiteratureSee Dickinson, T.M., 'Symbols of Protection: The Significance of Animal-Ornamented Shields in Early Anglo-Saxon England' in Med.Arch. vol. XLIX, 2005, pp.109-163, fig.13,e; Hammond, B., British Artefacts vol.1 - Early Anglo-Saxon, Witham, 2009, p.75-81, for discussion.
FootnotesThe mount belongs to the typology of symmetrically-shaped fittings with lozengiform or ovoid body. Comparisons might be made with a pair of bichrome fittings from a shield in Sleaford 136. Their ridged, gilded and punched bodies are not unlike that of the Sutton Hoo 018, 868 aquatic mount, but both their originally terminals are triangular or trapezoidal. They are therefore purely geometric, though it is a moot point whether a zoomorphic (aquatic) appearance was intended or given.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Anglo-Saxon Gilt Bronze Double-Axe Shield Mount
6th-7th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £260
With lozengiform central element and T-shaped 'axe' extensions; the lozenge with three-band collars, punched bands to the edges and central quatrefoil motif with pellets to the ends; two thick mounting lugs to the reverse, one with its mounting rove in place. 7.5 grams, 45 mm
Fine condition.
Found Hertfordshire, UK.
The mount belongs to the typology of symmetrically-shaped fittings with lozengiform or ovoid body. Comparisons might be made with a pair of bichrome fittings from a shield in Sleaford 136. Their ridged, gilded and punched bodies are not unlike that of the Sutton Hoo 018, 868 aquatic mount, but both their originally terminals are triangular or trapezoidal. They are therefore purely geometric, though it is a moot point whether a zoomorphic (aquatic) appearance was intended or given. -
Anglo-Saxon Chip-Carved Gilt-Bronze Brooch Fragment
6th-9th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £182
Likely the footplate from a larger brooch; oval body with chip-carved geometric ornament, three clusters of roundels to the circumference. 8.8 grams, 34 mm
Acquired on the UK market, 1990s. Property of a retired academic. -
Saxon Age Silver-Gilt Trefoil Brooch with Central Garnet
6th-8th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £780
Plaque with concentric raised rings and central glass cabochon, three radiating arms each with an S-scroll motif; catch and pin-lug to the reverse. 10.79 grams, 59 mm
From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.
The brooch is reminiscent of the Anglo-Scandinavian 'trefoil' type but lacks the customary detailing of that type. Its slender proportions and use of S-scrolled tendrils are more readily associated with the Irish metalworking tradition.
