8th-9th century AD. A large bronze disc brooch with openwork decoration; segmented rim enclosing an arcade, eight radiating florid arms extending to acanthus-leaf scrolls, central starburst motif; to the reverse, the catch and iron pin. 171 grams total, 22cm including stand (8 3/4"). From the family collection of a UK gentleman, by descent in the early 1970s; previously acquired before 1960. The style of the brooch is not typical of Scandinavia in the Viking period, although the decoration is clearly inspired by Carolingian and Ottonian rosette motifs - a similar model lies behind the 9th century Anglo-Saxon Fuller Brooch (British Museum acquisition 1952,0404.1) and the disc brooches from Pentney (e.g. acquisition number 1980,1008.5"). The openwork execution is also unusual for this period although it does feature on the 8th century Anglo-Saxon disc brooches from the Galloway Hoard (National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh"). It is possible that the brooch was already an antique when it was lost or hidden. Condition Report Fine condition.