Alfred Jewel

Today, we went to the Ashmolean Museum in which we could find many interesting objects such as jewellery, musical instruments, paintings, porcelain, etc. The object we chose is the Alfred Jewel.

This jewel was discovered in 1693 at Newton Park in North Petherton, Somerset. It is believed that in 878,  King Alfred stayed in that place in order to protect himself from the Vikings and then founded a monastery.

This is the most famous archeological jewel in England. It is comprised of a piece of cloisonne enamel depicting a human figure representing the sense of sight. The enamel is covered by a piece of rock crystal and set in a gold frame that terminates in a beast's head. It also has an inscription which says "Alfred ordered me to be made".

Its function is unknown.

We chose this object because at the moment we saw it, we knew it was the perfect and most beautiful thing we have seen. Also, we found it interesting when we read its description and history.

By Karla and Viridiana.