Native bling

Having a lot of property may be convenient, but it doesn't make you powerful – that is not until you show it off! The owner of this beautiful belt and cloak pin must have been a boss. THE boss, most likely. Imagine the villagers squinting their eyes as the sun reflected on the gleaming bronze studs and gazing open-mouthed at the showpiece: the hook that served to fasten the belt. And how they must have stared at the ‘fibula’, or cloak pin. That bronze horse's head, who would not want to have a closer look? 
 
Especially in a crisis, it is helpful that everyone knows who is boss, as it may provide a sense of security. Out of respect, a deceased village chief was given a place in a large, striking burial mound. As was the owner of all this beauty: a man from the Germanic elite. Thus, even after his death, he remained visible as a once-and-for-all powerful person.