An Anglo-Saxon Amulet Canister from Arncliffe, North Yorkshire

Abstract

This short note describes work to follow up the discovery by a metal-detectorist of a rare Anglo-Saxon container along with human remains at Arncliffe, North Yorkshire. A radiocarbon date places the burial in the range Cal AD 559–653, and the results of isotopic analysis are discussed. The find sets a new north-western limit to the distribution of these objects.

Keywords:

• Anglo-Saxon
• workbox
• reliquary
• amulet canister
• isotope analysis

Acknowledgements

The Upper Wharfedale Heritage Group would like to thank Kevin Woods who made the original discovery, the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Trustees of the Yorkshire Dales Landscape Research Trust, the landowner (Arncliffe Estate) and Richard and Sarah Paul at Carr Farm. Dr Jo Buckberry of Bradford University is also thanked for her support and assistance.