Anglo-Saxon 'Ornate Trefoil' Cruciform Brooch
Copper-alloy, 24.66 grams, 76.21 mm. Early 7th century. The headplate is cast with the side-knobs, presented as bifurcated crescents (or intersecting arcs). The central rectangular panel is plain, but punched pellet decoration remains on the edges. The bow is formed into a rounded ridge, but undecorated. The footplate features two lappets, one broken, with punched pellet decoration. It expands to a bifurcated crescent foot, with transverse ridge decoration and punched pellet detailing. The catchplate is complete, with traces of the iron pin remaining. The piece has a fine patination. Reference: Smith, R.A. British Museum Guide to Anglo-Saxon Antiquities, Trustees of the British Museum, 1923 p.73, fig.82(b). Very fine condition. Found Icklingham, Suffolk in the 1930's. Ex The Old Rectory Collection, Banningham, Norfolk.