LOT 0334

'The Eastchurch' Medieval Gold Gem-Set Annular Brooch

CIRCA 1200-1350 A.D.

1 1/8 in. (4.33 grams, 28 mm).

Surface of the frame with filigree decoration in the form of conical, spiralling coils of corded wire, each with applied granules, tubular collets forming the six bezels, each set with a gemstone: smooth cabochon garnets of different shades of red and pink and a single citrine; straightened.

Found whilst searching with a metal detector near Eastchurch, Kent, UK, on Sunday 6th September 2020; declared as Treasure and disclaimed under Treasure Reference no.2020-T978.

Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.KENT-D06625.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12548-231993.
This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

The design of this brooch, in terms of shape, form and decoration most closely resembles 'the Waterford ring brooch' found in Waterford, Ireland and dated to c.1210. The similarities include: the corded wire applied to the inner and outer edges of the front of the frame; applied spiralling coils of the same corded wire with granules; tubular collets set with stones; a pin with a decorated sub-rectangular collar; a punched hole on the inner half of the frame for the pin's attachment loop.