6th century A.D. A matched pair of silver-gilt bow brooches, eachposed of a gilt trapezoidal footplate with raised linear and spiral patterns and rim with triangles of niello, round cabochon garnets to the angles, small pierced lappets above the foot and facing animal-mask finial; arched ribbed bow inlaid with triangles of niello; gilt semi-circular head plate decorated with raised scrolls, niello inlay and five radiating baluster-shaped knops; pin lug and catchplate to reverses; each apanied by a custom-made display stand. Cf. Demirjian, T. et al., Treasure of the Dark Ages in Europe, New York, 1991, p.151, no.252. 14.7-16.5 grams, excluding stands, 78-79 mm (3 in."). Acquired c.1975. Private German collection. Property of an English gentleman. [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions ]Condition Report: Fine condition, some usage wear.