Copper-alloy, 13.81 grams, 36.99 mm. 4th-5th century AD. A Late Roman plate brooch in the form of four horse-head extensions emanating from the central square. The heads each have a ring-and-dot eye and triangular mouth; at the hub is a concentric circles motif. On the reverse the catchplate, spring-lugs and pin are in place. Brooches of this kind formed part of the equipment of the Late Roman military and derived forms remained in use into the early medieval period. Reference: Pollington, S., Kerr, L. & Hammond, B. Wayland's Work. Anglo-Saxon Art, Myth and Material Culture from the 4th to the 7th century AD,, Ely, 2010 pl.15(b). Extremely fine condition. Provenance: from an old English collection.