Scabbard-chape

National Museums of Scotland, inventory no. FC 282. Scabbard-chape -- Three piece U-shaped casting; silver, gilding and blue glass; 8.1cm max width. Terminates in two stylised beast heads, each trapping a small fish-like creature in its jaws. Inscription reads 'INNOMINEDS' ('in the name of God') on the front of the chape, and 'RESADFILISPUSSCIO' ('property of the son of the holy spirit') on the rear. Part of the St Ninian's Isle hoard, discovered in 1958. Pictish or Anglo-Saxon; late 8th century. For more information about the St Ninian's Isle treasure hoard, visit http://www.nms.ac.uk/our_collections/collection_highlights/st_ninians_isle_treasure.aspx © The Trustees of the National Museums of Scotland.