The Alfred Jewel

Ashmolean Museum inventory no. AN1836p.135.371. Gold, rock crystal, enamel. Dated to the late 9th century. Gold tear-drop shaped frame holds an enamel base beneath a polished rock crystal, possibly a reused piece from an older object. The separate back plate is held in place by dog-toothed claws, and the jewel terminates in a stylised animal head. The cloisonné enamel inlay depicts a green robed figure holding two plant stems or flowers, and has been interpreted as a personification of sight. The piece may be the head of an aestel or pointer used in the reading of manuscripts. The inscription reads +AELFREDMECH/EH/TGEWYRCAN 'Alfred ordered me to be made', leading some to posit a connection with King Alfred's programme for the renewal of learning in England, and specifically with the preface to the Old English translation of Gregory's 'Pastoral Care' which mentions that a copy of the work was to be sent to each bishopric accompanied by an 'aestel worth 50 mancuses'. For more information visit http://www.ashmolean.org/ash/objectofmonth/2005-04/theobject.htm