8th-9th century AD. A silver-gilt sword-belt appliqué set with niello detailing comprising: D-shaped buckle loop and tongue; three belt keepers with roundels to the upper face; attachment ring with inlay to accept the scabbard straps; eleven plaques each formed as opposed birds around a central ribbed dome; second attachment ring; sixteen heater-shaped panels each with an advancing lion, four with a separate ring to the lower edge; five panels with lateral point and matching recess, geometric design; similar finial with heater-shaped leading edge; all assembled and mounted in a glazed wooden presentation case. 3.6 kg total, case 132.5cm long (52"). From an old English collection, pre 1965. Fine condition.