It is a rare and striking example of Anglo-Saxon metalwork from the 'East Saxon' region, and is decorated with fine-quality filigree ornament including zoomorphs, quatrefoil knots and interlace. This form of pommel is found mainly in eastern Scandinavia, as well as in Kent, east and north-east England, the Danube headwaters and northern Italy.

Provenance

Discovered in 2003 by a metal detectorist at Ardleigh, near Colchester, Essex, and declared Treasure in 2005.