One of the most spectacular finds of the Anglo-Saxon period ever made in the country came to light in 1816 at Washingborough. In cutting one of the catchwater drains associated with the Witham a number of antiquities were recovered, including a jewelled silver hanging bowl probably dating to the late eighth or early ninth century. It is about 6 inches in diameter, and is decorated with a number of blue glass settings, imitating rivet heads, and enamelled plaques. In the centre of the bottom of the bowl stood a small long-necked animal surrounded by four small animal heads, while equally spaced around the outside were four escutcheons in the form of animals biting the edge of the bowl and acting as loops into which rings and chains would have been fitted for suspending the bowl. Notable are the evident thickness of the metal which would imply that the shape was cast instead of raised. Though evidently in good condition when it was exhibited at the National Exhibition of Works of Art at Leeds in 1868, it has not been seen or heard of since, in spite of intensive enquiries in recent years. {1}{2}