Anglo-Saxon Studies in Archaeology and History 15

Reports excavations carried out by Sonia Hawkes in 1976, and Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit (KARU) in 1989. These revealed nineteen certain or probable penannular ring-ditches, each containing at least one grave, with a total of seventy-eight burials excavated. Suggests that the site can be divided into two phases; one belonging to the first half of the seventh century, and the other to the middle to second half of the seventh century. Combines information derived from grave assemblages with their orientation to suggest that certain burials can be attributed to one or the other of these phases. Notes that the later burials are characterised by a wider range of artefact types. Grave goods include Frankish and Byzantine imports. Preservation was generally poor, due to the soil conditions; however the age and/ or sex of sixty-two individuals was estimated. The cemetery is not completely excavated, and its date-range is unknown. Each grave, with its associated burial and grave goods is described. PP-B

Re-examines published and unpublished archaeological evidence for defences at Hereford, Tamworth, Winchcombe, and Worcester. Concludes that the first three can be regarded as being of late ninth- to early-tenth-century date, but that those at Worcester may need reappraisal. Also concludes that the earlier defences sealed beneath them were more substantial than previously presumed, and that these probably dated to the eighth or very early ninth centuries.

Re-evaluates the style's distribution and significance using new finds, largely recovered through metal-detecting. Argues that the style permeated further north and east than has been thought. Notes that the style appears on an array of secular artefacts of varying quality, rather than being restricted to ecclesiastical items as had been previously believed. Presents evidence for the production of the style within the Scandinavian area of settlement, and relates its appearance and use to broader questions of social and cultural identity.