9th-10th century AD. A Scandinavian boar-head brooch, cast in two sections with a decorative upper element attached to a plain back-plate with spring-lugs and catchplate intact; hollow upper section divided by a heavy median rib with zoomorphic(?) ornament in the outer panels, coiled and linear bands to the lower edges and rear panel; lobed ears to the corners of the wider end. Cf. Franceschi, G., Asger, J. & Magnus, B. Mennesker, Guder og Masker i Nordisk Jernalderkunst, Bind 1, Silkeborg, 2005, figs.130-1. 42.8 grams, 51mm (2"). Property of a North East Essex lady; previously acquired in the 1980s; formerly in a 19th century collection.