6th-7th century AD. A silver-gilt decoration from a helmet forming the end of the crest; stylised bird-head with concentric rings for eyes and extended beak, pierced at the lower end for attachment; hollow to the reverse. See Mortimer, P., Woden's Warriors, Ely, 2011, figs.H4, H5, H7. 16.2 grams, 92mm (3 1/2"). Ex collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman; acquired on the UK art market; previously on the European art market before 2000. Appliqués of this type formed the finials for the thickened crests used on helmets of the Vendel Period in Scandinavia: specific examples include those from Broa, mounds 5 and 6 in the gravefield at Valsgärde, all in Sweden. The bird-head typically sits on the wearer's forehead above the nasal. Condition Report Fine condition.