Copper-alloy, 61.37 grams, 52.61 mm. 9th-10th century AD. The animal-head brooch form is a highly specialized derivative of the Late Roman supporting-arm brooch, whose sub-triangular form it echoes. This piece is cast in two pieces – the decorative upper, hollow casting is attached to a plain back-plate with spring-lugs and catchplate intact. The upper face is divided by a heavy, cast rib with zoomorphic ornament in the outer panels, placed symmetrically about the median rib. The corners of the wider end are reinforced with heavy lobed ‘ears’. The side panels are decorated with zones of ribbed interlace ornament. The upper-end panel bears a rectangular panel of linear interlace; the lower-end panel or muzzle is plain. Gilding remains across a large part of the upper surface. Reference: Franceschi, G., Asger, J. & Magnus, B. Menneseker, Guder og Masker i Nordisk Jernalderkunst Bind1, Silkeborg, 2005, figs.130-1. Very fine condition.