9th-early 10th century AD. A finial from a bronze ring-headed dress pin comprising: a facing animal mask with pricked ears and triangular muzzle, spur to the upper face with transverse hole to accept a wire ring (for the attachment of a securing cord); flanking the mouth, two bulbs developing to expanding ribbed and looped bands with pellet and crescent detailing, central openwork column with D-shaped mask above; Borre Style ornament throughout, hollow to the reverse; pin absent; mounted on a custom-made stand. Cf. Lehtosalo-Hilander, P-L., Luistari II The Artefacts, Helsinki, 1982, fig.32, for type. 106 grams total, 15.5cm including stand (6"). From the family collection of a UK gentleman, by descent in the early 1970s; previously acquired before 1960; this lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.10948-181312. Condition Report Very fine condition.