Online curator Talk: Up Close with The Ryedale Hoard

The Ryedale Hoard contains four spectacular yet diverse objects that were buried together some 1,800 years ago. Join our Curator to get up close with these spectacular objects and to explore their fascinating story - from their use in the 2nd century and the mystery of their burial, to their discovery and display.

[@frostdragon]

Thank you for such a informative presentation. Much loved

[@christineshepherd8047]

Really exciting. We might never know for sure why such a collection or hoard was buried! We can only speculate but that is intriguing in itself!

[@LorenaHitchens]

Fascinating talk! Thank you for posting it online so soon. Perhaps the purpose of the hoard is to commemorate the foundation of some imperial stables. Or the sale of a horse to the emperor? Just speculating. Thank you again.

[@eyecontact999]

Thank you for letting us see closeup such interesting artifacts.
How did the museum decide that the iron stud in half horse object had previously been a key as opposed to a spike for removing stones from horse’s hooves, a blade, a comb, a screwdriver (only joking on that one)?
I’m sure you had a sound reason for your key conclusion, but I’d be interested to understand why you're confident it’s a handle from a key.
Thanks again

[@PortAntissues]

You invite guesses on why it was buried, but of course if they are just loose objects removed randomly from a field by artefact hunters, all one can do is guess. Has an archaeological survey been undertaken to place these finds in context (for example checking the broken off bits are not present or retrieving them, and plotting the distribution of other archaeological material in the field - such as building material and nails from a structure)? How sure are you the finds came from the indicated site, are there photos of them in situ and in relation to each other or any other documentation - affidavit from the landowner for example? Thanks. Interesting presentation.

[@docastrov9013]

If you look at the plumb bob as potentially a spinning top it could be a collection of toys.