Saxon and Viking Bronze Artefact Collection

Comprising: two lead spindle whorls, one biconvex and the other plano-convex; a bronze buckle plate with niello detailing; a fragment of a mount with low-relief knotwork ornament; a bronze strap end with inlaid silver ornament, stylised beast-head finial. 66.2 grams total, 20-46 mm



Acquired on the UK art market. The strap end from Lincolnshire, 1970s. Ex private Merseyside, UK, collection.

With lozengiform central element and T-shaped 'axe' extensions; the lozenge with three-band collars, punched bands to the edges and central quatrefoil motif with pellets to the ends; two thick mounting lugs to the reverse, one with its mounting rove in place. 7.5 grams, 45 mm

Fine condition.

Found Hertfordshire, UK.

The mount belongs to the typology of symmetrically-shaped fittings with lozengiform or ovoid body. Comparisons might be made with a pair of bichrome fittings from a shield in Sleaford 136. Their ridged, gilded and punched bodies are not unlike that of the Sutton Hoo 018, 868 aquatic mount, but both their originally terminals are triangular or trapezoidal. They are therefore purely geometric, though it is a moot point whether a zoomorphic (aquatic) appearance was intended or given.

Sub-rectangular in form with raised oval cell with decoratively notched rim, set with a polished rock crystal cabochon (chipped). 15.2 grams, 23 mm



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