Anglo-Saxon Purse Cover - Early Medieval Art

Overview

• Artifact: Purse Cover
• Period: Early Medieval (Anglo-Saxon)
• Date: Circa 625 CE
• Museum: British Museum, London
• Distinguishing Features: High-quality materials, detailed craftsmanship
• Size: Approximately 7 x 3 inches

Description

• Purpose: Cover of a leather pouch, likely holding gold coins
• Attachment: Three hinges at the top
• Owner: Wealthy, important individual

Materials

• Primary Materials: Gold, gemstones (originally whale bone, now replaced with a similar backing for display)
• Technique: Cloisonné (decorative metalworking using enamel, glass, or gemstones separated by strips of metal)

Characteristics of Early Medieval Art

• Motifs: Interwoven and animal motifs
• Design: Abstractive and stylized
• Symmetry: Important element in the design
• Influence: Mix of old pagan and new Christian beliefs
• Geographic Influence: Northwestern Europe (United Kingdom)

Specific Design Elements

• Center Motif: Eagles attacking ducks (mirrored symmetry)
  • Eagles: Beaks curling around ducks
  • Ducks: Smaller animals with curved bills
• Side Motifs: Man between two beasts (frontal view of man, profile of beasts)
  • Beasts: Heads and mouths near the man's head, legs interweaving
• Abstract Patterns: Geometric and linear designs, interlaced patterns

Interpretation

• Symbolism: Complex and partially lost; likely narrative and symbolic meaning
• Cultural Significance: Rich in riddles and puzzles, expected viewer engagement

Comparative Example: Belt Buckle from Sutton Hoo

• Size: Over 5 x 2 inches, weighs almost a pound
• Material: Gold, indicates owner's wealth
• Design: Interlacing patterns and complex craftsmanship
  • Symbolism: Serpents, birds, other animal figures
• Significance: Similar stylistic features as the purse cover, indicating broader trends in Anglo-Saxon art

Key Takeaways

• Main Focus: Purse cover as primary example of Anglo-Saxon art
• Supportive Example: Belt buckle illustrating common stylistic elements