Early Norman 'Talbot' Zoomorphic Strap End
Copper-alloy, 7.73 grams; 39.89 mm. 11th century AD. A rare Norman zoomorphic strap end, with a rectangular fixing plate ornamented with plain central chevron in double-outline. The terminal converges to a narrow neck, then expands to an everted volute with incised linear decoration. The finial is in the form of the profile head of a 'talbot' or hunting-dog. The eye is prominently marked, with a surrounding border which extends to the entire profile of the dog. The two attachment rivets are still present. Found Suffolk.