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Symbolism: Serpents, birds, other animal figures
Beasts: Heads and mouths near the man's head, legs interweaving
Ducks: Smaller animals with curved bills
Eagles: Beaks curling around ducks
Supportive Example: Belt buckle illustrating common stylistic elements
Main Focus: Purse cover as primary example of Anglo-Saxon art
Significance: Similar stylistic features as the purse cover, indicating broader trends in Anglo-Saxon art
Design: Interlacing patterns and complex craftsmanship
Material: Gold, indicates owner's wealth
Size: Over 5 x 2 inches, weighs almost a pound
Cultural Significance: Rich in riddles and puzzles, expected viewer engagement
Symbolism: Complex and partially lost; likely narrative and symbolic meaning
Abstract Patterns: Geometric and linear designs, interlaced patterns
Side Motifs: Man between two beasts (frontal view of man, profile of beasts)
Center Motif: Eagles attacking ducks (mirrored symmetry)
Geographic Influence: Northwestern Europe (United Kingdom)
Influence: Mix of old pagan and new Christian beliefs
Symmetry: Important element in the design
Design: Abstractive and stylized
Motifs: Interwoven and animal motifs
Technique: Cloisonné (decorative metalworking using enamel, glass, or gemstones separated by strips of metal)
Primary Materials: Gold, gemstones (originally whale bone, now replaced with a similar backing for display)
Owner: Wealthy, important individual
Attachment: Three hinges at the top
Purpose: Cover of a leather pouch, likely holding gold coins
Size: Approximately 7 x 3 inches
Distinguishing Features: High-quality materials, detailed craftsmanship
Museum: British Museum, London
Date: Circa 625 CE
Period: Early Medieval (Anglo-Saxon)
Artifact: Purse Cover
Key Takeaways
Comparative Example: Belt Buckle from Sutton Hoo
Interpretation
Specific Design Elements
Characteristics of Early Medieval Art
Materials
Description
Overview
Anglo-Saxon Purse Cover - Early Medieval Art