The History of Oseney Abbey
Oseney Abbey was a medieval monastery that existed from the 12th to the 16th century. It was founded in 1120 by William de Warenne, Earl of Surrey, and his wife, Aveline de Clare. The abbey was dedicated to St. Mary and was known for its beautiful architecture and stunning gardens.
The Discovery and Excavation of the Ring
The ring was discovered in 2011 by a team of archaeologists from the University of Cambridge. The team was excavating a site in the village of Khirokitia, Cyprus, which is known for its well-preserved ancient settlements. The ring was found in a layer of soil that dated back to the 11th century.
The Significance of the Ring
The ring is significant because it is one of the earliest known examples of a stirrup-shaped ring. Stirrup-shaped rings were popular in the medieval period, but they were not commonly found in the Eastern Mediterranean region. The discovery of this ring provides valuable insights into the cultural exchange and trade networks of the time. The ring is made of a rare metal alloy, which is believed to be a combination of copper and tin. The ring is decorated with intricate designs, including a pattern of interlocking spirals. The ring is approximately 2.5 cm in diameter and weighs around 20 grams.
The Context of the Discovery
The discovery of the ring was part of a larger excavation project that aimed to uncover the history of the Khirokitia settlement. The site has been occupied since the Neolithic period, and it is believed to have been an important center for trade and commerce. The excavation uncovered a range of artifacts, including pottery, tile, and animal bone.
The Excavation Process
The excavation process at Gibbs Crescent was a meticulous and thorough one, involving multiple stages and techniques. The team from Oxford Archaeology worked tirelessly to uncover the hidden history of the site, using a range of methods to carefully excavate the area. The excavation began with a thorough survey of the site, using ground-penetrating radar and other non-invasive techniques to identify potential areas of interest. Once the site was surveyed, the team began excavating the area, using a combination of hand tools and machinery to carefully remove soil and debris. As the excavation progressed, the team encountered a range of archaeological features, including walls, floors, and other remains. The team worked carefully to document and record each find, using a range of techniques including photography, drawing, and written notes.*
The Finds
The archaeological finds at Gibbs Crescent are truly impressive, and will be deposited with the local Oxfordshire museum for further study and preservation. Some of the most significant finds include:
The beading is made of glass, crystal, or metal, and the ribbing is made of metal or bone. The beading is often in a repeating pattern of colors, such as red, blue, and yellow, or in a more complex pattern of shapes and colors.
He has a strong background in journalism and has worked for several other publications before joining the Andy.
Andy’s Journey to Becoming a Trade and Tourism Reporter
A Passion for Journalism
Andy’s journey to becoming a trade and tourism reporter began long before he started working for the Oxford Mail. Growing up, he was always fascinated by the world of journalism and the impact it had on society.