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Date: |
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Description: | Fragment from the lower bow / foot of a copper alloy cruciform brooch of probable 6th or 7th century date (500-650 AD). The fragment is broadly sub-rectangular in shape with two projecting wings (lapets) at the base (in plan it is an upside down T); in cross section the brooch is broadly sub rectangular. The upper part of the bow is broken; this edge is unpatinated suggesting a recent break. The head of the brooch, pin and upper bow is lost. The lower bow has a distinct curve to its profile; there the cross section is D shaped, as the bow swells at the mid-ridge. Beneath the bow is a sub-rectangular foot plate, the lower edge of which is thickened and rolled back upon itself. To either side are two sub-rectangular projections, (lappets) each is decorated with an incised design consisting of a central pellet enclosed by an annulet within a raised border. It is possible that the design may have been gilt - or possibly enamelled. The reverse face of the brooch is plain and undecorated. At the centre of the foot-plate is a vertical cast ridge; this is all that remains of the catchplate. The brooch is a mid green colour with an abraded pitted patina which covers most surfaces. A direct parallel has not been found partially due to the fragmentary nature of the artefact. It is likely to be a variant of a cruciform brooch. Dr Kevin Leahy has confirmed this opinion stating "This is a fragment of an Anglo-Saxon cruciform brooch of Aberg's Group IV and will date from the first half of the sixth century". The brooch measures 39.6mm length, 34.3mm width across foot and 18.1mm width across bow, it is 3.9mm thick across foot and 4.6mm width across bow. It weighs 17.84 grams.Thanks are extended to Dr Leahy for his opinion.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
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