It is an important find because period depictions of mounted European knights are relatively rare.
The figurine depicts a mounted knight of the twelfth century, apparently armed for combat, as he is holding his shield and is in full armour.
Characteristic of knights of the period, he wears a surcoat and very complete chainmail.
Despite these typically 12th century characteristics, his helmet is conical and he carries a kite shield, both reminiscent of depictions of Norman knights in the Bayeux Tapestry of the previous century.
The Carlton-in-Lindrick knight was featured in the Britain's Secret Treasures documentary shown on ITV.