Dating from the late eighth or early ninth century, it is a particularly elaborate example of a dress fastener dated to Ireland's artistic golden age, when objects such as the Tara Brooch and Ardagh Chalice were produced.

Both head and pin were ornamented with geometric and zoomorphic patterns and inset with amber pieces, some now missing.

On the back of the head there are two blue glass studs near where the large terminal joins the hoop.

[2] The intricate decoration on precious metal and the large size of the brooch suggest it was made for a wealthy patron or religious leader in Ireland in the late eighth or early ninth centuries AD.

In the pseudo-penannular type the terminal sides are joined, here by two narrow bands, making the brooch less efficient as a fastener.