A rare and unusual tongue-shaped Anglo-Saxon copper-alloy strap-end dating to the 10th - 11th century AD. Decorated in the Winchester style, this type of openwork strap-end is classified by Thomas as: Class E, Type 1, sub-type a – the inhabited plant-stem variety. The strap-end is decorated with various foliate motifs with a central boss in the form of a lion-head mask, from which issues additional foliate tendrils. The integral attachment plate at the base is decorated with ring and dot motifs, the two rivet holes are broken. The Winchester style, has its roots in south and south-east of England, and appears on a range of media including metalwork, sculpture and illuminated manuscripts dated to the 10th and 11th centuries, taking much inspiration from Scandinavian Viking designs of the period making it difficult to distinguish whether this item is of Saxon or Anglo-Scandinavian origin. The strap-end is in exceptional condition with a bright green patina and much detail remaining. A wonderful relic of this turbulent period in British history.

Dimensions: 60 mm x 28 mm. Weight: 22.4 g.

Classification: Thomas Class E, Type 1, sub-type a.

References: Gabor Thomas, (2003) Late Anglo-Saxon and Viking-Age strap-ends 750-1100: Part 1 Finds Research Group AD 700-1700, Datasheet 32.