Copyright Sheffield Galleries & Museums Trust
One of the boar's eyes from the Benty Grange helmet
Copyright Sheffield Galleries & Museums Trust
One of the boar's eyes from the Benty Grange helmet
Site name : Benty Grange
Site type : Burial site
Time period : Anglo-Saxon
Material : Metal; Gold; Gemstone
Object type : Grave goods; Personal item
Museum number : J93.1189
The boar on the Benty Grange helmet has very striking eyes. They are examples of particularly fine craftsmanship. The Anglo-Saxons were very skilled workers of metal.
The eyes are very tiny at only 9mm long, but they are beautifully made. They are made of gold, with inset garnets. Conservation in the 1940s allowed the eyes to be examined closely. These photographs, taken at the time, show a side and top view. Each eye is attached to a socket, which fits into the body of the boar.
Bibliography :
Bruce-Mitford, R. , 1974
Glossary:
Anglo-Saxon
Archaeologist
Garnet
Sutton Hoo
Related objects
Close up of boar on helmet from Benty Grange
The boar on the replica Benty Grange helmet
Gold and garnet disc from White Low
Watercolour showing the helmet from Benty Grange
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