Copper-alloy, 12.26 grams, 44.65 mm. 7th century AD A buckle and plate assemblage with a rectangular-section elliptical loop; a short square-section tongue with a recess on the underside to accommodate the loop; a triangular plate with central heart-shaped void. The underside bears two attachment lugs, pierced to accept a securing pin or wire. The buckle is similar finds from the Gothic settlements in the Crimea, influenced by contemporary Byzantine fashion. Reference: Menghin, W. The Merovingian Period. Europe Without Borders, p.284 item I.2.1.1 Extremely fine condition. Provenance: from an old English collection.