[1] The elegance of the engraved decoration depicting the Five Senses, highlighted by being filled with niello, makes it one of the most highly regarded pieces of Anglo-Saxon art.

The brooch is a large disc made of hammered sheet silver inlaid with black niello and with a diameter of 114 mm (4.5 in).

In the centre is Sight with large staring oval eyes, surrounded by the other four senses, each in his own compartment.

The outer border consists of 16 small medallions decorated with human, bird, animal and plant motifs.

[5] The niello technique may indicate that the brooch was made by metalworkers of King Alfred the Great's court.