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Discovery of a 1,400-Year-Old Anglo-Saxon Gold Raven’s Head in England
In a remarkable discovery, two metal detectorists, Paul Gould and Chris Phillips, unearthed a 1,400-year-old gold raven’s head in the countryside of southwest England. The find, made during an outing with their metal-detecting group, Ninth Regional Metal Detecting, has been hailed as a significant archaeological treasure. The raven’s head, dating back to the 7th century during the Anglo-Saxon period, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient craftsmanship and mythology.
The Discovery
The discovery occurred while Gould and Phillips were scanning the area with their metal detectors. Buried beneath the soil, they found a small but intricate gold object shaped like a raven’s head. Recognizing its potential historical importance, they carefully extracted it without cleaning or disturbing it further. Their cautious approach ensured that the artifact remained intact for proper analysis.
After the find, Gould and Phillips promptly contacted the landowner and local heritage authorities to report the discovery. The artifact was then taken to the British Museum for detailed examination and authentication. Experts confirmed that the raven’s head was indeed an Anglo-Saxon relic, dating back to the 7th century. Weighing approximately 57 grams, the piece is crafted with exquisite detail, though it is missing one of its eyes. Researchers are still unsure whether the eye was lost over time or if the artifact was intentionally created with only one eye.
Significance of the Raven in Mythology
The raven holds a prominent place in Norse mythology, particularly in association with Odin, the god of war, wisdom, and death. Odin was said to have two ravens, Hugin and Munin, who would fly across the world and report back to him. These ravens symbolized thought and memory, acting as Odin’s eyes and ears. The connection between the raven and Odin is further emphasized by the god’s sacrifice of one eye in exchange for wisdom and knowledge. This mythological context adds a layer of intrigue to the discovery, suggesting that the raven’s head may have held symbolic or ritualistic significance.
Additional Finds
Alongside the gold raven’s head, Gould and Phillips also discovered a gold ring set with a garnet. This piece, like the raven’s head, was identified as belonging to the Anglo-Saxon period. The ring’s intricate design and the use of garnet highlight the advanced metalworking skills of the Anglo-Saxons. Together, these artifacts provide valuable insights into the craftsmanship and cultural practices of the time.
Preserving History
The discovery underscores the importance of responsible metal detecting and collaboration with heritage authorities. Gould and Phillips’ decision to report the find immediately ensured that the artifacts could be studied and preserved for future generations. Such discoveries contribute to our understanding of history and help piece together the stories of ancient civilizations.
Exploring Anglo-Saxon Treasures
For those interested in learning more about Anglo-Saxon artifacts, the WorthPoint database offers access to over 1,100 such items. These treasures provide a window into the artistry, beliefs, and daily lives of the Anglo-Saxons, showcasing their contributions to history.
Conclusion
The unearthing of the 1,400-year-old gold raven’s head is a testament to the enduring allure of history and the thrill of discovery. Paul Gould and Chris Phillips’ find not only highlights the significance of metal detecting in uncovering the past but also deepens our appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Anglo-Saxon period. As researchers continue to study these artifacts, they will undoubtedly shed more light on the myths, traditions, and craftsmanship of a bygone era. This remarkable discovery serves as a reminder of the stories waiting to be uncovered beneath our feet, connecting us to the ancient world in profound ways.
