At the heart of these two jewels are Anglo-Saxon copper disc brooches dating from c. 800–1000 AD. Known archaeologically as Weetch Type 1A, after archaeologist Rosie Weetch, they are more evocatively recognised by the “backwards-facing beast” they depict: a strange, powerful creature with a flame-like mane, great curling tail and three-clawed feet. (See British Museum BM 1854,1227.66)
Weetch has suggested that images of powerful animals in Anglo-Saxon jewellery may have offered symbolic protection to the wearer, with something of the animal’s own qualities passing into the object that bore its image.
On a small number of these brooches, cup-and-dot marks appear deliberately placed upon the beast’s eye, shoulder, hindquarters and far hind leg. The cup-and-dot is an ancient motif with talismanic associations throughout the British archaeology, including traditions....of protection for travellers and those sheltering near standing stones.
Were these backwards-facing beasts once carried for comfort by people setting out alone upon the road?
Traveller I and Traveller II imagine that possibility for the present: the extraordinary craft of artist-jeweller Liz Willis encircling treasures from the Kapistree artefact collection, with a net of diamonds forming Ursa Major - the constellation that has guided travellers for millennia.
Ancient guardians, ready for the road once more.
