Medieval Archaeology 43

Contrary to earlier beliefs, finds from a number of sites in the Isle of Wight now attest to the continued wealth and economic importance of the island after its conquest by C`dwalla in 686. This is especially so around Carisbrooke, which served as a major central place in the Anglo Saxon period. The evidence from excavations and scattered finds is brought to together and discussed in the light of developments in the wider area. Includes a report (40--44) on a bronze staff fitting by Susan Youngs.

Structural analysis coupled with archaeological excavation at King John's House, Romsey, has revealed a mid-thirteenth century chamber block which probably stood within a precinct of adjoining buildings. The discovery and extravagant claims subsequently made for the building illustrate how far interpretation may be conditioned by circumstances of the time.

The relevance of `closure theory' to archaeology is discussed and it is argued that the role of material culture in shaping medieval group identities was enhanced by taxation on moveable property during the thirteenth century. Emphasis on monetary value led to concepts of ranking expressed in sumptuary laws and the use of symbols in late medieval contractual society.

Notes an increase in gold hoards in north Europe in the early-sixth century and proposes that they may be linked to the `dust veil' described in Mediterranean sources.

Scientific and stylistic analysis of part of a brooch, which may once have been part of a larger item.

An inscribed, worked pig bone is thought to have been a (now-toothless) comb. Considerable difficulties exist in interpreting the inscription.

A stone found close to a late Romano-British and early medieval cemetery may have been inscribed with runic and ogham characters.