7th-8th century A.D. Tongue-shaped with an applied openwork panel, cross-in-wheel motif within a segmented border and zoomorphic detailing; loops to the broad end and knop finial to the rounded end. Cf. Wamser, L., Die Welt von Byzanz - Europas Östliches Erbe, München, 2004, item 445, for type. 21.2 grams, 57 mm (2 1/4 in.).

Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Within the category of these buckles to which the current example belongs to, the plate was decorated with an openwork pattern which was rivetted onto a cover plate. The central decoration varied between purely vegetal depictions, mostly vines, and allegorical animal scenes, which J. Werner interpreted as a pictorial implementation of the animal symbolism of Physiologus.