Finds Tray – Bird brooch

This little bird, found by a metal-detectorist in Corhampton/Meonstoke, Hampshire, was once a brooch. Dating to the 6th century, it measures just 20mm long and 10mm wide, weighing 4.06g. The brooch was cast from copper alloy, after which its surface was gilded. Remains of the bright gilding have survived in the chip-carved grooves, highlighting the bird’s curved beak and the intricate geometric detail that decorates its pointed oval wing. The bird is shown in profile, and though its feet and tail are partially broken, enough remains to identify it as a bird of prey or possibly a raven. A circular recess forms its eye, which would have once glinted with a tiny gem. In style, the brooc