Copper-alloy, 14.60 grams, 41.14 mm. 10th-11th century AD. An unusual rectangular belt buckle of Scandinavian type. The forward bar is segmented with a triangular couch for the tongue (lost in antiquity); the side bars are chamfered, with segment detailing on both outer surface; the rear bar is round in section. At each corner is placed a triangular beast-head motif with square muzzle and two prominent, rounded ears, those on the forward edge facing forwards and those on the rear facing backwards. Buckles with similar decoration in triangular form are known from Viking period sites, but the rectangular style is very rare. Reference: cf. triangular example in Hammond, B. British Artefacts vol. 2 - Middle Saxon & Viking, Witham, 2010 item 1.2-c. Very fine condition, slight fracture to rear bar, uncleaned 'as found' condition. Provenance: found near Kemble, Glostershire, England.