English Anglo-Scandinavian - Zoomorphic Strap End > Lot No. 594

Description:
Circa 9th-10th century AD. A narrow copper-alloy strap end of a type influenced by Scandinavian design, the split end plain with a single piercing, and with the rivet still in place; the plate developing into an animal head in plan in the form of a serpent with lentoid eyes and powerful jaws gripping a dragon-head executed in profile with its prominent lower jaw, fangs and snout forming the terminal of the piece; the profile head executed in Ringerike Style and pierced in two places; the whole piece modelled in the round (with detail on the reverse).

Measurements:
46mm; 5.90 grams.

Condition:
Fine with full patination.

References:
Cf. Smith, 1923, fig. 131(4).

Export licence:
No

Estimate: £80 - 100 (EUR 100 - 120; USD 130 - 160)

Auction date: Friday 19th March 2010 at The Swedenborg Hall 20-21 Bloomsbury Way
London WC1A 2TH

Sold for: £60