Migration Period Hanging Bowl Escutcheons

Britain, 6th-7th century AD

Bronze, blue glass and red enamel inlay

Outer Escutcheons: 10.5 cm
Central Escutcheon: 7.5 cm
Fish: 6 cm

Provenance

British collection, by repute found in Norfolk

Subsequently UK art market, Bury St. Edmunds

DRG Coins & Antiquities, Hertfordshire, purchased from the above, 1990s

British private collection, thence by descent

A masterpiece of Celtic metal and enamel work, originally forming part of a hanging bowl, one of the most enigmatic and prestigious artefacts of early medieval Britain, representing the pinnacle of Anglo-Saxon ritual luxury and status.

This group, rendered in enamel and bronze, is one of only two known examples to preserve an internal fish decoration, a feature otherwise known only from the royal ship burial at Sutton Hoo, the richest Anglo-Saxon burial ever discovered.

POA