The Iconography of Early Anglo-Saxon Coinage: Sixth to Eighth Centuries

Description

This is the first scholarly art-historical appraisal of Anglo-Saxon coinage, from its inception in the late sixth century to Offa's second reform of the penny c.792. Outside numismatic circles, this material has largely been ignored because of its complexity, yet artistically this is the most vibrant period of English coinage, with die-cutters showing flair and innovation and employing hundreds of different designs in their work. By analysing the iconography of the early coinage, this book intends to introduce its rich legacy to a wide audience. Anna Gannon divides the designs of the coins into four main categories: busts (including attributes and drapery), human figures, animals and geometrical patterns, presenting prototypes, sources of the repertoire and parallels with contemporary visual arts for each motif. The comparisons demonstrate the central role of coins in the eclectic visual culture of the time, with the advantages of official sanctioning and wide circulation to support and diffuse new ideas and images. The sources of the motifs clarify the relationship between the many designs of the complex Secondary phase (c.710-50). Contemporary literature and theological writings often offer the key to the interpretation of motifs, hinting at a universal preoccupation with religious themes. The richness of designs and display of learning point to a sophisticated patronage with access to exotic prototypes, excellent craftsmanship and wealth; it is likely that minsters, as rich, learned, and well-organized institutions, were behind some of the coinage. After the economic crises of the mid-eighth century this flamboyant iconography was swept away: with the notable exeption of the coins of Offa, still displaying exciting designs of high quality and inventiveness, reformed issues bore royal names and titles, and strove towards uniformity. Contents Abbreviations Introduction PART I. NUMISMATIC BACKGROUND 1. Numismatic Background of Early Anglo-Saxon England The End of the Roman System Alternative Uses of Coins The Beginning of Coinage: Gold Issues Silver Issues Offa's Coinage Manufacturing of Coins Die-Cutters and Moneyers Patronage The Function of the Coinage Mints Chronology Classifications PART II. ICONOGRAPHY 2. The Bust The Head Attributes 3. Human Figures 'Victory' and Angels The Two Emperors Single Figure between Crosses Single Figure with Vegetation Motifs and Crosses Standing Figures with Cross and Bird Seated Figures Two Standing Figures The Archer 4. Animal Iconography Birds Lions Snakes Wolves Backward-Looking Animals Fantastic Hybrids 5. Reverses with Crosses, Standards/Saltires, and Porcupines Crosses Standards and Saltires Porcupines 6. Conclusion Bibliography Index Index of Anglo-Saxon Coins General Index A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y