A suite of substantial sheet gold belt fittings comprising: seven tongue-shaped tags each with a beaded double border and central panel of S-scrolled beaded filigree; two similar with volute-scrolled filigree; a D-shaped plaque with central filigree roundel and chevrons; two ellipsoid plaques with chevron and scroll motifs; a rectangular plaque with three filigree S-scrolls; three rectangular plaques each with gabled ends and granules, beaded filigree S-scrolls to each face; four crescent panels with S-scrolls and beaded borders; a large tongue-shaped strap end with beaded filigree chevrons, with remains of leather strap inside; possibly Khazar workmanship. [21]

PROVENANCE:
From the family collection of a Hampstead gentleman; formerly acquired in the 1980s.

FOOTNOTES:
The group represents the suite of fittings from a high-status belt. The plaques with slots to the lower edge would have been used to support the mounting straps for a pouch and a possibly dagger. Waist belts with rich decoration formed an important element in displaying both wealth and social status in the early medieval world, which can be seen in the numerous suites of fittings with gold, silver and gems which appear from the steppe to western Europe.