This Anglo-Saxon spoon, dating back to the early 11th century AD, is a remarkable artifact with a unique history. It was discovered during archaeological excavations at Westgate Park in Winchester, Hampshire, in 1951, on the site that would later become the court of Queen Elizabeth II.
The spoon is characterized by its distinctive features, including an elongated shallow bowl and a simply carved head resembling that of a bird-like animal at the junction with the handle. Unfortunately, the tip of the handle is missing. The spoon was skillfully carved from a single bone, specifically the radial bone of a cattle or horse. Although it was found in a domestic waste pit, suggesting it was used in daily household activities, the surface of the spoon is remarkably polished and exhibits no signs of wear. This suggests that the spoon may have been relatively new at the time it was lost or discarded.
The design of the spoon aligns with the standard late Anglo-Saxon spoon type. However, what sets it apart is its unusual and intricate decoration. The double acanthus leaf on the top of the bowl and the single acanthus leaf on the back reflect the artistic style of the period, known as the Winchester Art Style. This spoon is a testament to the fact that the Winchester Art Style was not exclusive to the elite or powerful; it also found its way into the everyday objects used by ordinary people, highlighting the wide-ranging influence and appeal of this artistic tradition.