Copper alloy, 6.14 grams, 22.43 mm. Circa 8th-9th century AD. A beautiful mount ornamented with an interlace pattern forming the neck of two conjoint zoomorphic masks, each with an ear at the junction of the neck, the whole area is covered in chip carved gold. Between the masks is a circular piercing and on the back there is a pierced projection, both would have been used for securing the piece. Ref: purchased Bonhams sale catalogue 27th April 2006, lot 293; also see for similar examples The Work of Angels Masterpieces of Celtic Metalwork, 6th-9th centuries AD edited by Susan Youngs, page 119. Published in Hammond, B.M. British Artefacts vol.2 - Middle Saxon and Viking, Witham, 2010. A very important piece of early Irish artwork in very fine condition. Ex Bonhams. Found Lincolnshire 2002. This item is accompanied by an XRF ancient metal test certificate from Oxford X-ray Fluorescence Ltd.