Anglo-Saxon Gilt Mount with Crystal Cabochon

Of Hines's Group XIII with running scrolls on the headplate surrounded by a border of beast-masks, deep bow with raised ribs, curved horse-head lappets and lateral lobes with facing masks, median panel of Style I ornament; remains of ferrous pin to the reverse and deep catch; some silver detailing; finial absent. 77.9 grams, 11.5 cm



Found near Thetford, Norfolk, UK, circa 2010.

This brooch falls within Hines's Group XIII and shares many features with an example from Nassington, Northamptonshire. The headplate bears a raised rectangular frame (possibly silvered) separating the inner scroll motif from the outer band of animal-masks which are pierced along the inner edge; the lappets are also pierced at the point of junction with the footplate. The lateral lobes feature facing masks of a helmetted type similar to those featured on contemporary button brooches.

Formed from a reused saucer brooch, discoid in plan with pierced lobe to apex for use as a pendant; decorated with a geometric scheme composed of a central raised boss enclosed by a five-point star, concentric circles and waves. 10.4 grams, 37 mm



Found Berkshire, UK. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.BERK-72DAE0.

Each with a suspension loop (one occluded) and decorative terminal, possibly formed as beast heads. 55 grams total, 13.2-13.5 cm



From a Norfolk excavation in the late 19th century. Ex property of a Nottingham gentleman by descent.