EARLY MEDIEVAL BUCKLE

600

Description: Frame of a miniature silver buckle with narrowed bar and steep angled cross-section to the curved edge. The pin is missing.Discussion: The small size as well as steep cross-section suggest that this buckle frame dates to the 7th century (cf. Marzinzik 2003, Type II.22b-i and II.24b ). It may have come from a pouch or small attachment strap of only about 6mm width.Analysis: Non-destructive X-ray fluorescence analysis of the surface of the buckle loop indicated a silver content of approximately 81% with at least 12% copper and approximately 3% gold and 4% lead. It may once have been gilded but it is difficult to be certain because of the stripped condition of the surface.Dimensions: W 13.6mm; L 10.5mm; H 2.8 mm; Weight 1.11 g.Marzinzik S. 2003 Early Anglo-Saxon belt buckles (late 5th to early 8th centuries A.D): their classification and context. BAR British Series 357 (Oxford).