#Portable Antiquities Scheme

[thepastisalreadywritten]

23 September 2024

[storiearcheostorie]

𝐈𝐧𝐠𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐚 / 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐋𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐮𝐧 𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐨 𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐚 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚 𝐝𝐢 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞: 𝐮𝐧 𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚 𝐢𝐥 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐭à La bellissima croce pettorale, in argento e oro, risale all’VIII secolo e apparteneva a una figura influente nella locale comunità sassone, forse un alto prelato o un importante funzionario laico. @leedscitymuseum #archeologia #archaeology #leeds #uk #cross

[davidsankey]

The late, and much missed Geoff Egan, Museum of London Department of Urban Archaeology finds specialist. He put in many hours for free advising Thames Mudlarks before they became fashionable and before (perhaps he was the inspiration for) the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Editor of Post-medieval Archaeology and christened Geoffo Badgerbeard  . BTW 2025 will see a Mudlarks exhibition at the London Museum Docklands. Look out for it

[archaeologicalnews]

Roman-era silver 'toilet spoon' discovered in Wales

A Roman-era silver "toilet spoon" discovered by a metal detectorist in the U.K. has been declared a "treasure" by experts.

Valentinas Avdejevas made the peculiar finding in 2020 while exploring Vale of Glamorgan, a county in Wales. He surrendered the metal artifact to the Portable Antiquities Scheme for Wales, a local authority that works directly with metal detectorists who have unearthed artifacts. The utensil is currently in the possession of Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales, according to a statement.

The narrow silver spoon (also known as a Roman ligula) contains a shallow, circular bowl attached to a thin, bent handle and would have been used to scoop out cosmetics and perfume from long-necked bottles. Read more.

[lionofchaeronea]

Brooch (the so-called "Hanney brooch") of Anglo-Saxon (Kentish) manufacture, decorated with garnets set in bosses of a white material, perhaps shell. Made in the 7th century, the brooch was found in the grave of a woman between 20 and 25 years of age and would have been worn on her left shoulder. From Oxfordshire, England, UK; now in the British Museum. Photo credit: Ian R. Cartwright/The Portable Antiquities Scheme/The Trustees of the British Museum.

[blueiscoool]

Discovery of Roman Buried Coins in Wales Declared Treasure

Two sets of coins found by metal detectors in Wales are actually Roman treasure, the Welsh Amgueddfa Cymru Museum announced in a news release.

The coins were found in Conwy, a small walled town in North Wales, in December 2018, the museum said. David Moss and Tom Taylor were using metal detectors when they found the first set of coins in a ceramic vessel. This hoard contained 2,733 coins, the museum said, including "silver denarii minted between 32 BC and AD 235," and antoniniani, or silver and copper-alloy coins, made between AD 215 and 270.

The second hoard contained 37 silver coins, minted between 32 BC and AD 221. Those coins were "scattered across a small area in the immediate vicinity of the larger hoard," according to the museum.

"We had only just started metal-detecting when we made these totally unexpected finds," said Moss in the release shared by the museum. "On the day of discovery … it was raining heavily, so I took a look at Tom and made my way across the field towards him to tell him to call it a day on the detecting, when all of a sudden, I accidentally clipped a deep object making a signal. It came as a huge surprise when I dug down and eventually revealed the top of the vessel that held the coins."

The men reported their finds to the Portable Antiquities Scheme in Wales. The coins were excavated and taken to the Amgueddfa Cymru Museum for "micro-excavation and identification" in the museum's conservation lab. Louise Mumford, the senior conservator of archaeology at the museum, said in the news release that the investigation found some of the coins in the large hoard had been "in bags made from extremely thin leather, traces of which remained." Mumford said the "surviving fragments" will "provide information about the type of leather used and how the bags were made" during that time period.

The coins were also scanned by a CT machine at the TWI Technology Center Wales. Ian Nicholson, a consultant engineer at the company, said that they used radiography to look at the coin hoard "without damaging it."

"We found the inspection challenge interesting and valuable when Amgueddfa Cymru — Museum Wales approached us — it was a nice change from inspecting aeroplane parts," Nicholson said. "Using our equipment, we were able to determine that there were coins at various locations in the bag. The coins were so densely packed in the centre of the pot that even our high radiation energies could not penetrate through the entire pot. Nevertheless, we could reveal some of the layout of the coins and confirm it wasn't only the top of the pot where coins had been cached."

The museum soon emptied the pot and found that the coins were mostly in chronological order, with the oldest coins "generally closer to the bottom" of the pot, while the newer coins were "found in the upper layers." The museum was able to estimate that the larger hoard was likely buried in 270 AD.

"The coins in this hoard seem to have been collected over a long period of time. Most appear to have been put in the pot during the reigns of Postumus (AD 260-269) and Victorinus (AD 269-271), but the two bags of silver coins seem to have been collected much earlier during the early decades of the third century AD," said Alastair Willis, the senior curator for Numismatics and the Welsh economy at the museum in the museum's news release.

Both sets of coins were found "close to the remains of a Roman building" that had been excavated in 2013. The building is believed to have been a temple, dating back to the third century, the museum said. The coins may have belonged to a soldier at a nearby fort, the museum suggested.

"The discovery of these hoards supports this suggestion," the museum said. "It is very likely that the hoards were deposited here because of the religious significance of the site, perhaps as votive offerings, or for safe keeping under the protection of the temple's deity.

By Kerry Been.

[loathsome-little-creature]

I've met plenty of "witchy" and "oddity" types who collect bones but I've never interacted with someone who's kept dubious human remains eeeeeeyuck!!! The closest I've gotten is doing rotations at a dentist's office who had a human skull with labeled human teeth that was left in the lobby for children to "interact with".... Did not like that at all but go off I guess!

(Please note I’m altering specific details so I don’t dox myself but the story is unchanged)

So I bought this medieval buckle for research from a guy out of Iowa, the provenance was fine it was recorded on the portable antiquities scheme, all was well. Useful information, overall super worth it for the project I was doing. Unfortunately he proceeded to sign me up for his newsletter which included such wonderful things as:

Human skull engraved as a teaching tool for phrenology, 19th century

Human skull on a spike allegedly from a German city gate, late 15th century

Human finger bones, allegedly a saint’s relic circa god knows when

Human skin, allegedly a saint’s relic circa god knows when

And of course interspersed with a bunch of medieval swords so fake they form a kind of catalogue of the things 19th century fakers did not know about medieval swords.

[p5x-theories]

Kotone's Confidant

(last updated 4/19/25!)

This post documents the fully filled-in information on Kotone Montagne gained through progressing her Confidant! It contains things that could be considered spoilers for her Confidant, as part of the information is a summary of its story.

Kotone is available in the evenings most days, when it isn’t rainy. Her Confidant is tied to the Proficiency social stat, and level 17 Proficiency is required to fully complete it.

Note that Kotone's Confidant takes place after Tomoko's Confidant, though the game will let you start it before completing Tomoko's Confidant.

Favorite Presents

(An asterisk (*) marks the special presents added with (and unlocked through) Miyu Sahara’s Confidant, which are liked by all Confidants currently in the game.)

Sports Protective Gear Wearable protective gear used during sports. The black and pink color scheme has won the Fashion Design Award at the Sports Equipment Awards.

Maid Model This expensive maid model was once a popular product in maid cafes.

Japanese-Style Book Jacket A Japanese-style book jacket, made of satin.

Elegant Wooden Comb This antique wooden comb was made by a famous artist with very fine workmanship.

Limited-Edition Keychain* This keychain has a unique shape, and is well-made, but there weren’t many of it produced. It has a certain collector’s value.

Bulk Snacks Value Pack* A combo pack containing a variety of traditional snacks that will remind people of the taste of childhood.

Advanced Essential Oil Combination* A value-for-money set of essential oils, with multiple functions to help you relax your mind and body.

Chestnut Cake* Fragrant chestnut cake with mild sweetness to suit most people’s tastes.

Musical Snow Globe* A snow globe that plays music, and can be shaken gently to make snow fall inside.

Desktop Incense Machine* A household incense machine that is small in size, so it can be placed anywhere.

Snowflake-Themed Keychain These dangling keychains with designs based on cartoon snowflakes are very cute and popular right now.

Classical Music Record Collection It contains dozens of well-known classical compositions, and is a valuable collector's vinyl record set.

Premium Yoga Mat A yoga mat produced by a well-known manufacturer that's comfortable and portable, making it suitable for yoga in various locations.

Sports Headphones Headphones specifically designed for people who like sports, that can adapt to various strenuous exercise situations.

High-End Sports Watch A sports watch with heart rate monitoring and timing functions, which can help wearers better manage their time and health.

Scenic Poetry The cosmos, surrounded by golden osmanthus, create a lively and warm atmosphere.

Personal Information

Pre-Version 4.0:

Birthday: January 29 Zodiac Sign: Aquarius Age: 16 years old Height: 162 cm Weight: 45 kg Interests: Bathing, reading books, reading and replying to fanmail Features: Figure skating

Version 4.0:

Birthday: January 29 Blood Type: A Age: High school second-year Profession: Figure skater Height: 162cm Weight: I'm not sure (changes daily) Favorite Food: White peach snow milk Interests: Listening to jazz Features: Triple axel jump

Story

Character Details A talented girl who has attracted much attention in the figure skating world. She once disappeared from the public eye due to an injury. She is currently preparing for her first competition after her comeback...

Personal Data 1 Kotone will perform a brand new choreography in her upcoming competition. In order to understand its theme, the "Dance of Love", Kotone invited me out to the amusement park. Although her efforts were fruitless in the end, we had a great day together. Before we parted, I agreed to Kotone's request to come see her next practice.

Personal Data 2 Kotone's coach is a cheerful woman, and she mistook me for Kotone's boyfriend when we first met... However, she's also very strict, and mercilessly pointed out all of Kotone's shortcomings in expression in her performance. But it didn't seem like Kotone understood her coach's relatively abstract suggestions very well. In order to help Kotone, I promised to come to more of her practices in the future.

Personal Data 3 In order to understand "love", Kotone has tried various methods. After confiding in me about her troubles and confusion, she suddenly suggested dating me, hoping that we could say "I love you" to each other even if it was fake. Although she immediately took back the idea, I still realized Kotone seems to have ended up with some kind of misunderstanding...

Personal Data 4 After today's practice, Kotone took me to experience pairs' figure skating. I discovered that she's not only a great athlete, but an excellent teacher as well. An extra bit of good news is that my company really seems to inspire her. But that aside, I also spotted a strange man holding a camera... I hope nothing bad happens...

Personal Data 5 A photo of Kotone and I skating together made the news, and was spread widely as evidence of Kotone having a "love affair". Faced with the public's comments, Kotone panicked, and almost ran into traffic. Fortunately, I caught up to her in time. Unexpectedly, her mood recovered quickly, and she even performed better than usual at her practice afterward. It seems she's grown quite a bit, subconsciously.

Personal Data 6 Kotone's performance has gotten even more perfect. Although she still doesn't fully understand the meaning of "love" in the choreography, everything is developing in a good direction. During Kotone's practice, her coach expressed her gratitude towards me, and I also learned about her good intentions. However, I'm not sure what the "final work" she mentioned is...?

Personal Data 7 Kotone was very sad to learn that her coach is planning to retire after this competition. Kotone realized this means her performance is her coach's final choreography, but was still unable to understand the theme, and couldn't help but worry she was going to let down her coach. I comforted her, and she gradually regained her energy. And not only that, but she seemed to understand something else, too...

Personal Data 8 I accompanied Kotone to the shop where she gets her custom-made competition outfits. Kotone obviously had a clearer idea about her performance now, and made a lot of expressive requests. This surprised the designer, who's known Kotone for a long time, and she enthusiastically decided to redo the outfit. Later, as we walked through the park together, Kotone confided in me about her understanding of "love"...

Personal Data 9 Kotone conducted an open practice in front of the media. Unexpectedly, her coach also invited the reporter who spread those rumors about Kotone's relationship. However, regardless of whether she was facing a regular interviewer or someone who spread rumors to hurt her, Kotone handled it calmly and expressed her true feelings. It seems that Kotone has become a completely mature figure skater...

Personal Data 10 Her coach changed her mind about retirement, and Kotone put on her new redone outfit, putting on her best practice performance so far and conveying her love for everyone. In her future practices and competitions, I don't seem to have to worry about her anymore. I can just look forward to seeing her expressive and beautiful performances now...

Voice Lines

Japanese VA: Shino Shimoji | Chinese VA: MuYa RuiLin

(As I can only add up to ten audio files per post, I’ll only include the Japanese lines below! Feel free to ask for the Chinese ones, though.)

Kotone Montagne. I'm a figure skater. Nice to meet you.

I'm often told that I'm too easily swayed and hurt by the words of others... What should I do...

Right now, the thing I'm most lacking in is expression. For the sake of winning my next competition, I have to learn everything I can, and master it.

I've been figure skating since I was little. My training is very strict, but when I think about seeing all my efforts come to fruition in the end, I don't feel tired at all.

Whenever I hit a setback, you're always there for me. If I imagine what it'd be like without you, I feel fear from the bottom of my heart. I'm really lucky to have met you.

The people who see my performances often feel something, and sometimes they'll tell me how they felt. This has always made me happy to hear, ever since I started figure skating, but until recently I haven't been able to express that happiness in words.

The skating rink is a huge mirror. A merciless mirror, that reflects the true skill of the athletes atop it. That's why effort is indispensable, if I want to like the me in the mirror.

Confidant-Specific Bonuses

Rank 1 Four Quadrant Rule: Marthym task completion time reduced by 10%.

Rank 5 80/20 Rule: The number of Marthym task options spawned increases by 1.

Rank 9 Pomodoro Technique: Marthym task completion time reduced by 1

Rank 13 Condensing Law: The chance of rarer Marthym tasks spawning is increased.

Rank 17 Time Blocking Theory: Unlocks the ability to quickly complete Marthym tasks, three times per week.

[the-nettle-knight]

Hoxne is both very close to Sutton Hoo (ship burials), West Stow (Anglo-Saxon village and cemetery) and Rendlesham (royal palace complex where the people buried at Sutoon Hoo likely lived) - exceptionally famous Anglo-Saxon sites - and to some of the most exciting Palaeolithic sites in England. That hand-axe was probably found within a few miles of the site and represents what is most likely the second phase of Neanderthal occupation in East Anglia, roughly 400,000 years ago during a warm interglacial period. Some of the earliest fire use and indications of culture in England come from the sites near this find. So, this isn't just a cool rock, this is an exceptionally cool rock

It's also important to point out that the metal detectorists here did exactly the right thing - reporting it to local archaeologists to have it properly excavated. If you're in the UK and do any sort of detecting or Mudlarking, I'd implore you to report any finds you make to the Portable Antiquities Scheme, and make sure you are familiar with the updated Treasure Act 2024. The PAS is an incredible scheme that has some of the best publicly available data on archaeological artefacts in the world, which is mainly down to the amazing amateur historians, responsible detectorists and other citizen scientists. I'd really recommend you check out the database:

https://finds.org.uk/

Most hoard images from Wikipedia.

Found with the rest of the hoard, the handaxe pictured above was probably found either while digging his own hole for the treasure or maybe earlier in a precious bout of hoarding by some Romano-Briton who thought it was cool enough to bury along with all of his coins and Juliane's bracelet, because cool rock. This was absolutely the correct move.

Article here from Smithsonian Magazine.

[dnaestore]

DNA Estore | Royal Grandeur Redefined: Handcrafted Rani Bani Thani Decorative Polyresin Sculpture

Welcome to DNA Estore, your trusted global e-commerce destination for affordable luxury home decor and premium gifting solutions. We proudly present one of our most celebrated art pieces — the Handcrafted Antique Finish Rani Bani Thani Decorative Polyresin Sculpture — a timeless tribute to India’s royal artistic legacy, now available to elevate homes and interiors across the world.

Rediscover Indian Royalty with Rani Bani Thani Sculpture

Inspired by the classic Rajasthani miniature painting style, this sculpture captures the legendary grace of Rani Bani Thani, often referred to as the “Indian Mona Lisa.” Every detail in this handcrafted polyresin showpiece is a nod to regal elegance — from her expressive features to the intricate styling of her attire and jewelry.

Available exclusively at DNA Estore, this piece infuses any space with cultural richness and majestic charm.

Premium Craftsmanship in Polyresin and Microfiber

This elegant showpiece is made from high-quality polyresin and microfiber, blending strength with delicate artistry. The antique finish adds depth and vintage appeal, making it a standout piece whether placed in a traditional or modern setting.

Durable, lightweight, and crafted to perfection, it promises long-lasting beauty while being easy to handle and maintain.

Perfect for Homes, Hotels, and Cultural Spaces

The Rani Bani Thani sculpture is a versatile decorative accent that enhances a wide variety of spaces, including:

Living rooms and drawing rooms

Hallways, foyers, and entrance areas

Boutique hotels and luxury resorts

Cultural centers and reception spaces

Artistic galleries or ethnic corners

Its timeless design and royal presence make it a favorite among interior designers and art collectors alike.

Thoughtful Gifting – Cultural, Elegant, and Unique

Looking for a meaningful gift that blends tradition and elegance? This handcrafted figurine is ideal for:

Weddings and anniversaries

Housewarming celebrations

Corporate and festive gifting

Diwali, Eid, or Navratri occasions

Cultural souvenirs or collector’s gifts

At DNA Estore, we make it easy to gift something truly memorable — all while staying within budget.

Affordable High-Class Decor – Only at DNA Estore

At DNA Estore, we are redefining affordability without compromising on luxury. This royal couple resin sculpture is part of our exclusive handcrafted collection, offered at unmatched pricing for both retail and wholesale buyers.

We offer:

Competitive rates for individual and bulk orders

Authentic craftsmanship and premium material finish

Reliable international delivery

End-to-end customer support

Whether you're furnishing your own space or sourcing for your business, our offerings ensure top-tier value.

Serving B2B and B2C Clients Globally

As a leading global digital e-commerce platform, DNA Estore caters to:

Interior designers and architects

Hotel and boutique store chains

Corporate gift planners

Homeowners and art collectors

With customizable bulk order options and user-friendly purchase processes, we make it simple for both businesses and individuals to access our premium products.

Cultural Elegance That Transforms Any Space

The Rani Bani Thani sculpture is not just decor — it’s a storytelling piece. It reflects grace, poise, and cultural heritage in a visually stunning form. Ideal for those who value:

Ethnic Indian aesthetics

Handcrafted artistic expressions

Heritage-inspired home accents

Collectible decor with deeper meaning

Let this sculpture become the focal point of your interiors, radiating warmth and royal splendor.

Product Details – Rani Bani Thani Decorative Figurine

Material: Durable Polyresin + Soft Microfiber

Finish: Antique Hand-painted Detailing

Color Scheme: Royal Reds, Golds, and Earth Tones

Weight: Lightweight, Portable

Size: Various sizes available (custom options for bulk)

Use: Home Decor, Gifting, Collectible Art

Shipping: Global Delivery via DNA Estore

Price: Budget-Friendly and Value-Driven

Why Choose DNA Estore?

Trusted Global E-Commerce Platform

High-Quality, Handcrafted Premium Products

Best Prices for Retail and Wholesale Orders

Seamless Global Logistics and Delivery

Custom Order Support and Personalization

Reliable Customer Support Around the World

With DNA Estore, you gain access to a world of tasteful decor and traditional artistry, delivered right to your doorstep.

Find Us Online with Ease

Our website is optimized to help you find what you need quickly. Search for:

Rani Bani Thani Resin Statue

Indian Antique Polyresin Sculpture

Handcrafted Ethnic Home Decor Online

Traditional Couple Showpieces for Gifts

Affordable Indian Art Figurines

When you search, DNA Estore is where style meets tradition—beautifully.

Explore More Handpicked Home Decor

At DNA Estore, this is just the beginning. Explore our curated decor range featuring:

Elegant Men Figurines

Romantic Couple Resin Statues

Musical Lady Decorative Sculptures

Festival and Ethnic Gifting Products

Shop Royalty, Shop Tradition – Only at DNA Estore

The Handcrafted Antique Finish Rani Bani Thani Decorative Polyresin Sculpture is a symbol of India’s rich cultural legacy, reimagined for the modern world. Whether you're decorating, collecting, or gifting, this sculpture is the embodiment of affordable luxury, heritage, and fine craftsmanship.

Visit DNA Estore today — your global gateway to premium, handcrafted home decor at unbeatable prices.

[shakespearenews]

The ring has now been recorded as a 'find of note' by the Portable Antiquities Scheme, which has concluded that the ring is in the early post-medieval style, but is most likely a 19th-century replica of Shakespeare's signet or seal ring.

[wizprout]

9 Latest Photography Trends of 2024 | Let’s Media Solution

Photography is still changing as we go toward 2024, adopting new ideas, styles, and technologies. Both professional and amateur photographers are constantly searching for the latest trends to incorporate into their work. We’ll look at the biggest photography trends in this blog, from cutting-edge methods to hot new subjects that are predicted to rule in 2024.

1. Integration of AI and Machine Learning

Photography is changing in ways never seen before because of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). Even more sophisticated AI-powered photo-editing, sorting, and enhancement technologies will be available in 2024. By automating time-consuming processes like colour correction, face retouching, and backdrop removal, these technologies free up photographers to concentrate more on their creative work.

2. VR & AR

The ways in which we view and make photographs are about to change dramatically as AR and VR become more widely available. Nowadays, photographers are able to produce immersive experiences that allow spectators to interact with virtual elements in a picture or explore 3D settings. With its more captivating method of presenting visual content, this trend is especially well-liked in the real estate, travel, and product photography industries.

3. Accessible Drone Technology

As drone technology advances, more people are using them to take breathtaking aerial photos, contributing to their continued rise in popularity. By 2024, drones with higher resolution and more control and stability will be smaller and more manageable. For photographers specialising in landscapes, events, and real estate, these developments will present fresh angles that were previously unattainable.

4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Photography

Growing environmental consciousness has led to a notable trend in photography: sustainable techniques. Photographers are adopting more energy-efficient equipment, reducing waste, and employing eco-friendly materials. A global shift towards environmental awareness is also reflected in the growing interest in capturing topics relating to sustainable living, climate change, and wildlife protection.

5. Vintage and Retro Styles

Photography trends are still influenced by nostalgia, with retro and vintage styles becoming increasingly popular. Photographers who want to convey a feeling of authenticity and timelessness often use film photography, polaroid-style prints, and antique editing techniques. The allure of bygone eras lends a distinctive touch to portrait, fashion, and wedding photography, which is where this trend is most noticeable.

6. Simplicity and Minimalism

A world full of information is making minimalism photography more popular. This minimalistic style emphasises simplicity, producing visually spectacular images with a restrained colour scheme, clear lines, and negative space. Minimalism is a strong trend in both fine art and commercial photography because it draws attention to the topic and the feelings it portrays.

7. Real and Sincere Moments

These days, authenticity is widely prized in visual culture. In 2024, people will become more and more interested in unposed, real-life events that capture authentic feelings and situations. This trend is especially noticeable in wedding and lifestyle photography, where unplanned images frequently convey more interesting tales than well-planned ones.

8. The Evolution of Mobile Photography

With the constant advancement of smartphone cameras, mobile photography is becoming more and more powerful. Smartphones are quickly replacing cameras as the primary instrument of choice for many photographers because of features like numerous lenses, AI-enhanced shooting modes, and robust editing apps. Anticipate even more remarkable mobile photography in 2024 as these devices continue to push the limits of what is possible with small, portable cameras.

9. Inclusivity and Diversity

In photography, representation is more important than ever. Diversity and inclusivity are being promoted widely as a reflection of the multitude of cultures, identities, and experiences that make up our global community. A more inclusive visual narrative is being created by photographers who are showcasing marginalised communities, praising diverse body types, and shattering prejudices.

Conclusion

The 2024 photography trends are a result of a confluence of artistic development, cultural changes, and technological breakthroughs. The photography industry is seeing exciting and significant changes as practitioners embrace artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and sustainable techniques, all the while showcasing authenticity and diversity. Keeping up with these trends can encourage you to push the limits of creativity and innovation while also keeping your work current. Two thousand twenty-four promises to be an exciting year for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike, with lots of exciting new innovations to look forward to.

Capture your moments with the best in the business! At Let’s Media Solution, we specialize in providing top-tier photography and videography services tailored to your unique needs in the vibrant city of Dubai. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project and let us bring your vision to life.

[a-dauntless-daffodil]

haven't been able to find a source for this photo that isn't tumblr or facebook...

If these ARE German, then they're probably a fad brought over from somewhere else. Looking into it a bit, maybe they're copied / inspired by the mermaid whistle / rattles from Spain or belled amulet rattles from Italy?

Anyway, the facebook version for this specific pic says:

"Hunting Whistles - also in the form of a Stylized Siren, 16th century. Silver and gold. Hunting whistles, as well as falconry whistles from the medieval and Tudor period are very rare, with only four other examples in silver listed on the Portable Antiquities Scheme, whilst another three are in the Museum of London collection. A beautiful gold hawking whistle that was given by Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn can be seen in the Victoria & Albert Museum."

One of the items in this picture (second down on the right) has a very similar look-a-like on manuelohen dot com which says:

"Amulet, Museu Maritim de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain Amulet, a bell, rattle and whistle in the form of a mermaid, silver, 18th century, in the Museu Maritim de Barcelona, or Barcelona Maritime Museum, housed in the former medieval royal shipyards and arsenals at Drassanes, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. The museum houses exhibits on the maritime history of Catalonia, including many ships and boats built in the shipyards of Barcelona. Picture by Manuel Cohen."

Mermaid whistles with bells maybe seem to be A Thing.

As with this one, which also looks kinda like on in the original pic, second down on the left, at Autioneum, which lists it as:

18TH CENTURY SPANISH SILVER GILT FIGURAL MERMAID WHISTLE RATTLE AMULET An 18th century Spanish silver gilt figural whistle rattle. The rattle in the form of a siren mermaid, mirror in hand and holding a cylindrical whistle aloft, strung with bells and foliates upon fancy link chain. The chains united by a figural surmount having large fashioned bale. Unmarked, tests indicate silver. Measures approx 16cms drop x 7cms width. AF the rattle retains most original gilding, a few bells have been lost over time.

There's also this whistle / rattle / amulet in a similar style that's both listed as Sold on antiquestore dot art AND listed as for sail on graysantiques dot com both of which describe it as:

"A silver gilt mermaid rattle and whistle. North European, probably Frisia, mid 18th century. Measures 11.2 x 7.5cm, excluding chain but including bells. Amulets in the form of a mermaid have been used since the 17th century. The noise of the bells hanging along the lower edge would help to frighten off any evil spirits. In medieval France the mermaid also merged with the symbolism of motherhood."

For museum sources, there's this horse rattle from Italy, as seen on clevelandart dot org, that's got the same basic style, silver with the chain suspension and hanging bells, which lists it as:

Rattle 1700s Italy, Sicily, 18th century silver Overall: 23.5 cm (9 1/4 in.); Average: 7.7 x 7 cm (3 1/16 x 2 3/4 in.) The Mary Spedding Milliken Memorial Collection, Gift of William Mathewson Milliken 1947.275

've got no study in any of this, but if the original pic IS of some "German Hunting Whistles", then I'm very sad that the one hunting museum in Munich I've seen didn't have any :(

(it did have a really nice collection of swords, horns, and stuffed Wolpertingers tho)

Hunting whistles, 1500s, Germany.

[warningsine]

The long, thin piece of metal looked like a scaffolding pole when Trevor Penny saw it on the banks of an English river last November.

That would not have surprised Mr. Penny, who, while practicing his magnet fishing hobby, has unearthed household items, tools and other metal debris from the waterways near his Oxfordshire home. (Magnet fishing is pretty much what it sounds like: A strong magnet is attached to a rope, which is then tossed into a body of water.)

But his find that day was much more dramatic: a rusty Viking sword that had been there for more than 1,000 years.

The sword, found in the River Cherwell and identified by an archaeological group that tracks public finds, most likely dates to a period between 850 A.D. and 975 A.D. Mr. Penny said he handed it over to the Oxfordshire Museums Service this week, where it is expected to be put on display after restoration.

The discovery evokes a medieval era during which Vikings landed in the British Isles, raiding, plundering and trading their way through England and Scotland. Their incursions did not last, but their descendants still make up part of the British population today. In recent years, metal detectorists have helped unearth artifacts and treasure that had lain buried underground for centuries.

Detectorists in 2007 found a hoard of Viking treasure near North Yorkshire that experts called one of the most significant finds in Britain. Another hoard buried during that era was discovered in 2014 in Galloway, Scotland. But not everyone who stumbles across such discoveries has been immediately transparent: Two men in 2019 were convicted of theft and ordered to pay $1.5 million after they concealed the discovery of an Anglo Saxon hoard of treasure and sold some of the items.

When Mr. Penny, 52, realized what he had found, he contacted a local official responsible for identifying the public’s archaeological finds.

The discovery was “one further puzzle piece that can cast light on our shared heritage,” said that official, Edward Caswell, who documents Oxfordshire finds for the Portable Antiquities Scheme run by the British Museum. More analysis was needed, he cautioned, but experts confirmed that the sword fit with others from that era.

“We do find Viking weapons, including swords, deposited in rivers in England,” said Jane Kershaw, an associate professor of archaeology at the University of Oxford. About 70 such swords have been found in Britain, she said, and while Mr. Penny’s sword might have been dropped by accident, they were also often intentionally thrown in waterways as part of a ritual.

“Rivers were seen as gateways to other worlds, where gods and other creatures or spirits might live,” she said, adding that archaeologists interpreted such rituals as a Viking plea for protection or luck, perhaps in battle.

Many such weapons have been found in the north and east of the country, Dr. Kershaw said. She called the sword a “rare example” of viking activity in the area.

“It is outside the normal find zone for these weapons,” she said. “But the Vikings, they were active in that area. There is a lot that we don’t know about their activities.”

Hobbyists are increasingly making important discoveries, and Dr. Kershaw said it was critical that they report their finds. “It’s hugely valuable information,” she said. “As long as they are recording it, this is having archaeology that otherwise would be lost.”

But who owns artifacts that are found today can be a thorny issue, and can depend on whether they are classified as “treasure.”

According to the Treasure Act in Britain, metal objects more than 300 years old when found must be reported to the authorities within two weeks. Museums have the chance to claim objects, and finders and landowners may receive a reward, after an object is valued if it is deemed to be a treasure.

Mr. Penny found the sword on land owned by the Canal & River Trust, a charity that manages many of England’s inland waterways. The group has banned magnet fishing on its property, saying that it can be “dangerous” and that sharp objects could cause problems for visitors.

But the charity called the sword an “exciting find,” and it has agreed with Mr. Penny to transfer any potential ownership rights over the sword to a local museum.

Since he began magnet fishing three years ago, Mr. Penny has helped dredge up other discoveries, including old railway tools and a grenade suspected to be from World War II that had to be safely detonated by the authorities.

“It’s a great way to meet people,” said Mr. Penny, who often brings the metal he collects to a local scrapyard. “We get to talk to lots of people passing, who all thank us for cleaning the environment.”

He posts about his finds to a local magnet-fishing group, and so far has no plans to stop.

“I will keep fishing,” Mr. Penny said. “Hopefully with permission to do so.”

[lionofchaeronea]

Denarius of the Roman emperor Hadrian (r. 117-138 CE), minted between 119 and 122. On the obverse, the bust of Hadrian. On the reverse, the personified goddess Roma, seated. Roma holds a spear in her left hand and a small, winged Victoria (Victory) in her right; beneath her is a cuirass, and behind her a shield. The inscription around her reads P(ONTIFEX) M(AXIMUS) TR(IBUNICIA) P(OTESTATE) COS III. This coin was found in North Yorkshire, England, UK, and is now in the British Museum.

Photo credit: Amy Downes on behalf of the West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service/The Portable Antiquities Scheme/The Trustees of the British Museum.