Mount (detail), for bell shrine

This bronze mount for a bell shrine was found at Inchaffray Abbey in Perthshire. The site was once an island, on which an abbey was founded in 1200. This shrine is earlier, dating from between 1000 and 1200.

The mount is now in two pieces. This picture shows the two animal head eyes. The lentoid eyes and the swirling tendrils are characteristic features of an Irish version of a Scandinavian art style. Details were picked out in silver and niello.

The Vikings first raided the British Isles in the late 8th century, and later settled in many of the regions, particularly parts of England, Scotland and the Isle of Man. The interaction resulted in exchanges of goods and ideas, including art styles.

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