Anglo-Saxon 'Silver-Inlaid' Zoomorphic Strap End
Copper-alloy and silver, 3.78 grams, 36.60 mm. 8th-9th century AD. An unusual strap end featuring a scrolled upper edge with two piercings to accept rivets, with a pelta-shaped panel between. The main panel features four elliptical panels with silver inlay, with two triangular panels between. the beast-head terminal has spiral ears and a silver-inlaid panel on the brow above a stubby, square muzzle. The piece is divided lengthwise to accept a belt or strap. Reference: Webster, L & Backhouse, J. The Making of England. Anglo-Saxon Art and Culture AD 600-900, London, 1991, p.98 fig.69n. Very fine condition. Provenance: from an old English collection.