Issue 35 autumn 2022 - Flipbook - Page 6
National Museums
Scotland acquires
rare, early medieval
gold sword pommel
National Museums Scotland has acquired an exceptionally rare gold sword pommel, created around
700 AD. Discovered in Stirlingshire, this spectacular object is one of the first of its kind found in Scotland
and has been allocated to the Museums by the King’s and Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer following
the recommendation of the Scottish Archaeological Finds Allocation Panel.
The pommel is a decorative fitting that would have
capped the top of a sword hilt made over 1000 years
ago. Crafted in solid gold, the object is encrusted with
garnets and intricate goldwork. This rich and technically
accomplished decoration is highly symbolic, featuring
religious motifs and fantastical creatures.
The discovery was made near Blair Drummond in
Scotland, adding significantly to its archaeological
value, affirming important cultural, political and artistic
interactions within northern Britain. Its decoration
masterfully combines elements from both Anglo-Saxon
England and the kingdoms of Early Medieval Scotland.
This vibrant ‘Insular art’ style, made famous by illuminated manuscripts such as the Lindisfarne Gospels, is
Britain’s unique contribution to medieval European art
and the Stirling pommel is an outstanding expression of
this creative fusion in gold.
Pictures, early medieval gold sword pommel.
Photo © Stewart Attwood.
Dr Alice Blackwell, Senior Curator of Medieval Archaeology and History at National Museums Scotland, said:
“Goldwork from this period is virtually unknown from
anywhere in the UK and we are delighted to secure the Stirling
Pommel for Scotland’s national collections. It is a hugely
significant archaeological find, revealing more about this
fascinating period in the history of northern Britain and representing the spectacular skill and craftsmanship of the period.”
The pommel was discovered by a metal detectorist and
declared to the Treasure Trove unit, in accordance with
Scots Law. It was subsequently allocated to National
Museums Scotland by the Scottish Archaeological Finds
Allocation Panel (SAFAP).
John Logue, King’s and Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer,
said: “This discovery highlights the positive work done by the
Treasure Trove Unit to decide upon the preservation of
rare items for the nation.”