Large Anglo-Saxon Bronze Zoomorphic Strap End

Likely the footplate from a larger brooch; oval body with chip-carved geometric ornament, three clusters of roundels to the circumference. 8.8 grams, 34 mm



Acquired on the UK market, 1990s. Property of a retired academic.

Of Hines's Group XX with square headplate bearing concentric bands of billets, undulating lines and punched points, with vesica motifs to the upper corners; thick shallow bow with central rib, isosceles triangle footplate with horse-head lappets and flanking lobes with concentric rings, ropework bands and central vesica, disc finial with ropework border; pin-lugs to the reverse and broad catch. 136 grams, 13.5 cm



Found near Grimsby, Humberside, UK, circa 2010.

The brooch shows a restrained use of low-relief detailing confined to largely geometric features other than the horse-heads at the shoulders and the single facing mask on the headplate above the junction with the bow. The bow itself is very thick and displays a prominent median rib with just a suggestion of outer ribs. The mineral deposits on the reverse bear the imprint of the textile to which the brooch was attached.

Comprising: a bucket pendant; tweezers; fragmentary pin with punch-decorated facetted finial; mount displaying a lion's head; together with other pendants. 25.4 grams total, 15-39 mm



Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a Ruislip, UK, gentleman, by inheritance.