Abstract
A STURDY DECORATIVE PLATE OF IRISH TYPE, originally made as part of a horse bridle set but modified for attachment by rivets, has been found at South Shields Roman Fort, Tyne and Wear. The functional cruciform shape may have given it a contemporary Christian significance. The finely detailed ornament was gilded and in detail matches some of the finest Irish metalwork and illuminated Insular manuscripts of the 8th century. A dating horizon around the mid-8th century is suggested for manufacture. Finds of similar pieces from dated Norwegian burials provide evidence for later deposition and some show adaptation for secondary use. This piece may well have circulated through Viking trading activity in Northumberland.
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