Pole top c. 9th century

This pole top, of unknown date and origin, is made of bronze and presents a symbolic rendering of power and identity. As an object, it might seem simple, but consider how bronze, as a material, signified status and access, and the making of it would have involved specialized labor. We can read this pole top as a cultural artifact, one that can give us insight into the complex social structures of its time. The imagery speaks to the era's belief systems and perhaps the intersection of spiritual and political authority. The figures, rendered with careful detail, suggest a narrative, maybe a story that reinforces communal values, or even commemorates historical events. The act of placing it on a pole elevates these stories and beliefs, making them visible and central to community life. It’s an assertion of identity, a visual statement about who the community is and what they value. It embodies a convergence of artistry, belief, and societal structure.