Anglo-Saxon Gilt Lozenge-Shaped Brooch with complex Diamond Design

Comprising an integral coiled pin-lug and catchplate; panels of gilt geometric 'Greek key' pattern to the upper face. 5.68 grams, 60 mm



Found Sudbury, Suffolk, UK.

Or a hanging-bowl chain comprising: nine sets of two parallel-twisted 8-shaped links, with interstitial H-shaped twisted elements, the lower four each with a standing bull figure with prominent horns; a lateral hook with herringbone twisted shank; lower hooked flange with four herringbone-twist bars with looped ends; suspension ring and four-bar herringbone-twisted shank. 3.1 kg, 1.03 m



Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector.

The chain and fittings closely resemble those recovered from Mound 1 at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk, England (British Museum accession ref. 1939,1010.167). It is understood that the chain was used to support a cauldron above the hearth, with additional hooks and suspension brackets for ancillary vessels. The bull-head detailing was present on the wrought-iron stand (ref. 1939,1010.161) from the same grave.

Displaying chased panels populated with Style I zoomorphs and geometric forms, borders of annulets, raised masks to the upper corners of the headplate; applied discoid boss to bow decorated with a rosette, addorsed beast heads below; extensive remains of gilding; pin lug and catchplate to reverse and remains of ancient repair, lower part absent. 80 grams, 82 mm



Cambridgeshire collection, 1990s.

The fractured lower edge shows signs of an ancient repair using a separate panel of sheet bronze pinned to the reverse.