The gold buckle from the Sutton Hoo ship burial is a remarkable example of early Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship and a symbol of wealth and status in early Anglo-Saxon England. Buckles like this one were used not only for functional purposes but also as expressions of the wearer's social standing and importance.
This particular gold buckle is a work of art in its own right, weighing over 400 grams. It takes the form of a hollow box with a unique opening mechanism. The box can be opened from behind on a hinge under a hinge, and it has a sophisticated locking system. This system includes an intricate arrangement of sliders and internal rods that fit into grooves, allowing the buckle to close securely.
The surface of the buckle is adorned with no fewer than thirteen creatures, making it a truly spectacular piece. The plate and round tongue plate feature depictions of wriggling snakes and intertwining four-legged beasts. These creatures' bodies are accentuated with piercing ornamentation filled with black ink. Stylized snakes that appear to be biting their own bodies can be seen sliding along the loop of the buckle. At the end of the buckle, two beasts are depicted clutching a small, dog-like creature in their jaws. Additionally, two ferocious bird heads are present on the shoulders of the buckle.
The intricate and detailed design of this buckle makes it one of the most powerful representations of early Anglo-Saxon England. It not only showcases the exceptional skill of the craftsmen of that era but also reflects the significance of such items in conveying the wearer's prestige and social status. While similar buckles from other regions, like the Frankish and Burgundian parts of the continent, have been associated with Christianity, the specific religious or symbolic meaning of the Sutton Hoo buckle remains uncertain. Nonetheless, it remains an iconic artifact from this important archaeological site, shedding light on the culture and craftsmanship of early Anglo-Saxon England.