This silver brooch, crafted in the Trewhiddle style, originates from the Anglo-Saxon culture during the 9th to early 10th century. It was discovered in Marbury, Cheshire.
The brooch takes the form of a cast silver disc, and its design is quite intricate. The disk is divided into sections by two crosses with concave handles. One of these crosses is set vertically, while the other forms a saltire, creating the motif of an eight-pointed star. This star is adorned with intricate leaf, scroll, and foliate designs, which are inlaid with niello, a black metallic alloy. At the center of the star and its four cardinal points, you can find riveted domed silver bosses.
Between each of the arms of the star, there is an openwork, stylized representation of a Late Anglo-Saxon Trewhiddle creature. These creatures have curved necks that extend outward and heads turned at an angle towards the center of the brooch, with their heads positioned vertically in relation to the edge of the brooch. Each creature features a square nose snout, a drilled eye, and what appears to be a "plume" or ear extending from the top of the head. Underneath the chin of each creature, there is a protruding feature, possibly representing a tongue or another detail.
On the back side of the brooch, part of the pin mechanism is still intact, including the hooked catch, although the spring pin is broken off.