Episode 8: Suite of Sword Fittings

This sword would have glistened as its owner – an elite warrior, possibly part of a royal household – went in to battle. Covered with gold, its garnets are specially backed by foils to make them reflect the sunlight.

Yet, why, despite its value, the hilt was badly damaged when it was ripped from the sword on which it was mounted. Just one of the mysteries of the hoard.

KEYWORDS: Staffordshire Hoard, Anglo Saxons, Mercia, Warriors, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, BMAG, Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, Books

In Hoard, Anglo Saxons,

Featuring:

Pieta Greaves

Thanks to:

Birmingham Museums trust, The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, Birmingham City Council, Stoke on Trent City Council