Key learning points

1. One of the main sources of evidence archaeologists use to investigate the Anglo-Saxons are their grave goods.
2. The Sutton Hoo burial mound was discovered in East Anglia in 1938; it contained the grave goods of an Anglo-Saxon king.
3. Intricate gold and bronze jewellery has helped archaeologists to understand that the Anglo-Saxons were skilled artisans.
4. Some pieces contain garnets that probably came from as far away as India; silver plates and bowls were from Byzantium.
5. A beautiful bronze helmet, a sword and the remains of a boat show how important warfare was to Anglo-Saxon culture.

Keywords

• Grave goods - grave goods are objects buried in people's graves, providing insights into their culture and daily life

• Artisan - an artisan is a skilled craftsperson who creates objects by hand, often using traditional techniques and tools

• Garnet - garnet is a precious gemstone that comes in various colours, often used in jewellery and decorative items

• Byzantium - Byzantium is the name of an ancient Greek city which was an important centre of trade and culture, now known as Istanbul

Common misconception