Two spectacular Anglo-Saxon gold pendants unearthed by metal detectorists in a North Lincolnshire field are among the objects going on display in a new exhibition that opens at North Lincolnshire Museum on Saturday 16th November.
The exhibition tells the story of the discovery and excavation of two Anglo-Saxon cemeteries at Sawcliffe in Roxby cum Risby during the 1990s, and what these and other sites in Winterton Vale, The Hidden Valley, can show about life in Anglo-Saxon England.
The star of the exhibition is a stunning gold pendant dating to the seventh century. Unearthed in 1993 by metal detectorists Craig Allison and Glyn Nicklen, the pendant features an ornate design in the shape of a cross surrounded by beautiful red garnet gems – three of which survive.
Craig Allison, owner of Crawfords Metal Detectors, said: “Although it happened more than 30 years ago, I remember the thrill of holding the pendant like it was yesterday. It’s a feeling that will never leave me. It was hard to believe it had spent over 1,400 years below ground, as I held it in my hand, it shone like the day it was made.
“We spent a whole week poring through the soil trying to find the missing central garnet with no luck. No matter though – the pendant is still spectacular, and I’m proud and delighted more people get to see it.”
The pendants will be exhibited alongside more beautiful objects from Sawcliffe, which was excavated between 1993 and 1998 by staff and volunteers from North Lincolnshire Museum.
Visitors can expect to see everything from brooches and buckles to pottery and weapons – many of which will be going on display for the very first time.
