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

A mixed group of artefacts comprising: two annular brooch frames with worn remains of geometric motif and remains of pin; a zoomorphic strap end with beast head finial and geometric interlace motifs to the body, remains of enamel inlay, two piercings for attachment. 23.8 grams, 40-44 mm

Fair condition.

Found Yorkshire, UK.

Plate brooch with raised rim and four applied knops (two absent); central disc surrounding by four radiating arms extending to D-shaped panels at the rim where the knops are attached; the interstitial fields with dense reserved meander-pattern ornament; pierced at the centre with a second eccentrically-placed hole and another offset hole at the end of one of the 'arms'; part of the rim absent; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 7.73 grams, 29.2 mm (29.19 grams total, 68 mm including stand)



Found Harston, Cambridgeshire, UK. Ex Essex collection formed in the 1980s. From the collection of Dirk Kennis, Belgium.

The 'key pattern' design appears in Irish and Scottish (Pictish) metalwork and carved stone such as the Nigg Stone (Ross Shire, Scotland) as well as in the borders of the Book of Kells. Recorded, studied, and determined by the Secretary of State’s Expert Adviser as an object of cultural interest. The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA) considered an application to export this object. The Committee concluded that the object satisfied the third Waverley criterion and is therefore currently not exportable.

Composed of a cylindrical body, lobed neck, bulbous collar to handle with splayed square-section finial and a crescentic arm to the other end. 1.1 kg, 40 cm



Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.