Anglo Saxon Brooch

This Anglo-Saxon brooch, discovered during excavations with Channel 4’s Time Team, is part of a collection of Anglo-Saxon grave goods from West Langton. A group of burials were found and in the grave of one female skeleton, excavated just after the cameras stopped filming, a fabulous selection of possessions dating from the late 5^th and early 6th century AD was uncovered. Items from this burial include an amber and glass bead necklace, bronze cruciform brooches and the silver-gilt equal arm brooch, suggesting a high-status inhabitant of the area 1,500 years ago.

Ornate belongings such as this brooch, were unearthed in a block of soil, where they were carefully excavated and x-rayed to determine their present condition. The brooch had unfortunately separated into 17 pieces, however its shape and style was clear. It was also evident that it had been well-loved and well-worn by its owner due to certain areas having worn away which would explain why it was buried with them. Early Anglo-Saxons, particularly wealthy ones, were often buried with their most significant possessions as it was widely believed that they would need things to take with them to the afterlife. The brooch was meticulously pieced back together and can now be seen in all its original glory.

Take a look at other objects from the Langtons in our exhibition, researched by volunteer Evie, now in the Community Showcase cabinets in the museum!

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