Large Anglo-Saxon Bronze Great Square-Headed Brooch

LATE 5TH-6TH CENTURY A.D.

6 1/4 in. (136 grams, 16 cm).

Comprising a rectangular headplate with outer band of Style I masks, raised border and inner panel of scrolls with two annular cells to accept inlay; shallow bow with raised median rib and corrugated surface, outward facing mask at each end; footplate with lateral lappets featuring profile horse-heads; median bar with central cell, lozenge panels with scrolled border and masks in the lateral lugs; mask at the lower end with raised triangle; scars from pin-lugs and catch to the reverse.

Provenance

Found Seaham, Co Durham, UK.
Property of a Durham private collector.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12924-245112.

Literature

Cf. Hines, J., A New Corpus of Anglo-Saxon Great Square-Headed Brooches, London, 1997, items 17(a), Rothley for headplate, 16(b), Holywell Row for foot.

Footnotes

The brooch seems to belong to the group IV of the great squared brooches. Usually, they have a large 'rampant beast' in the footplate upper borders, and a large mask in the terminal lobe, of rather more varying pattern.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine 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:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

Live Bidding

LOT 0291