Copyright Sheffield Galleries & Museums Trust
Orb from Wigber Low
Copyright Sheffield Galleries & Museums Trust
Orb from Wigber Low
Dimensions : Diameter 3.1cm.
Site name : Wigber Low
Site type : Burial site
Time period : Anglo-Saxon
Material : Stone
Object type : Grave goods; Personal item
Museum number : 1996.716.2
This unusual object was from a group of finds found at Wigber Low. They were deposited with the body of a young woman aged 17-25 years. This burial, in a irregular pit on the southern edge of the cairn, was excavated in 1987.
The orb is made of rock crystal and was used as an amulet or good luck charm. These were popular during the Anglo-Saxon period. The earliest were found in Kent. From here, they spread across the country during the 7th century.
Bibliography :
Jones, H. E. , 1997
Youngs, S. M., Clark, J., Gaimster, D. R. M. and Barry, T. , 1988
Glossary:
Amulet
Anglo-Saxon
Cairn
Related objects
Beaver's tooth pendant from Wigber Low
Strap end from Wigber Low
Glass doorstop made at Catcliffe
Bowl from Cow Low
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