On January 8, amateur metal detectorists in southwest England unearthed a truly epic trove. Among the finds, they discovered two gold-and-garnet objects that experts at the British Museum believe date to the Anglo-Saxon period, or the seventh century. One of the most exceptional findings is a beautiful raven’s head. It’s lavishly decorated with complex geometric patterns and probably adorned a drinking horn, similar to those found in the iconic grave at the equally iconic Sutton Hoo ship burial.
Chris Phillips discovered the raven’s head during exploratory excavation in a farmer’s field. Reader, adventurer, and history fanatic, Barry is an active member of the Ninth Region Metal Detecting Group. The most arresting aspect of the artifact is its beautiful garnet eye that really draws you in. Little gold orbs trace its garnet-spangled “barbs,” a testament to that period’s astounding artistry. Weighing only about 2 ounces (57 grams), this unique piece is thought to be one of the most historically important musical instruments.
The raven has been a prominent symbol in ancient European folklore, as the bird was often seen as a harbinger of darkness and death. The gold-and-garnet raven’s head has a fascinating riddle to its past. Its precise meaning and representation are still unknown, which makes this finding all the more interesting.
Following the discovery, Phillips expressed his emotions regarding the significance of the artifact, stating, “It’s unbelievable — I’m a bit emotional.” He added that the finds will go through the treasure process, which can take years.
The Portable Antiquities Scheme assesses finds made by hobby metal detectorists in the U.K. We’ve been in touch with them about this amazing discovery. For example, the U.K.’s Treasure Act defines as treasure artifacts made from precious metals 300 years or older. This designation guarantees that these irreplaceable objects are afforded the diligent inquiry and protection they deserve.
Just before McCarty’s first find, another detectorist in the party—Paul Gould—had detected a flat metal object. Initially they thought it was an Anglo-Saxon ring, with the raven’s head discovered. The site’s potential as an archaeological treasure trove is hardly an exaggeration. This unexpected find makes us want to dig deeper, literally, to see where else these rare and important artifacts were found.
Needless to say, interest in this extraordinary discovery is skyrocketing. Scholars have said it may help shed pearls of wisdom related to the cultural and historical context of that period in England’s Anglo-Saxon period. Next, archaeologists will do a more detailed survey of the site. They hope to find more artifacts that will help tell a story of this deeply rich and storied past.
