Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Rare silver alloy Anglo-Saxon finger ring with a broad hoop, supporting a large circular bezel. The bezel is enclosed by a narrow incised border and is engraved with a stylised beast or quadruped. The creature has an elongated body, bent legs and a curling tail. Outside diameter: ± 20,6 mm Inside diameter: ± 17,2 - 18,7 mm Bezel: ± 15,6 mm Condition: good solid condition, wearable. The silver displays an attractive smooth and darkened patina with areas of wear and deposits, consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity (PDF) is available upon request for all lots with a hammer price of €100 or higher. -> Animal ornament was a defining feature of Anglo-Saxon metalwork. Craftsmen transformed birds, serpents and four-legged beasts into elongated, interlacing forms that could be fitted into small decorative spaces. The creature was not always intended to represent an identifiable species; its twisting body, open jaws and merging plant forms were part of a rich ornamental language associated with status, protection and artistic skill. Comparable 9th-century Anglo-Saxon silver rings decorated with engraved Trewhiddle-style beasts are preserved in the British Museum. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been carefully examined for its material and surface characteristics. Laboratory analysis (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting, and destructive testing is avoided as it causes permanent damage to archaeological material. Before modern hallmarking, gold and silver alloys varied depending on local resources, recycling practices and economic conditions.