Cultural Background/Time Period: Middle Anglo-Saxon
Production Date: Mid-9th Century
Origin/Discovery Location: Europe, specifically in the British Isles, England, Norfolk, North Elmham
Materials Used: Copper alloy; niello
Description: This intriguing artifact is a copper-alloy cast censer crafted in the Middle Anglo-Saxon period, dating back to the mid-9th century. The censer has an open bowl design with a flat base and a rim adorned with openwork arches mounted on rectangular bases. It stands on three engraved lines that encircle the bowl.
The body of the censer is divided into six vertical panels by triple engraved lines. Originally, the censer would have had suspension chains, although they are now lost. These chains were attached to three upward-pointing animal heads that were riveted to the rim of the bowl. These animal heads are characterized by snub-nosed muzzles, prominent lenticular (lens-shaped) eyes, rounded ears, and stylized manes in the form of a comma. Additionally, their foreheads feature incised notches that have been inlaid with niello, a black metallic alloy used for decorative purposes.
This censer represents a fascinating blend of craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural influences from the Middle Anglo-Saxon period, showcasing the skill and creativity of the artisans of that era.