The period of British history that extends from the end of Roman Britain to the seventh century has been the subject of considerable debate. During this time, many parts of Britain underwent huge cultural change, with the creation of new identities that made reference to groups across the North Sea.

This chapter is concerned with the ways in which material culture was used in fifth- and sixth-century Essex and the possible implications of these. The first half of this study examines the archaeological evidence regarding the use of three major classes of portable material culture: dress accessories, coinage, and pottery. The latter part of the chapter places these material-specific findings in their wider archaeological and historical context, drawing on the full range of archaeological evidence in Essex, to draw conclusions concerning – firstly – the formation of early ‘Anglo-Saxon’ society in Essex, and subsequently the mechanism of economic exchange and its link to social stratification. It is hoped that this structure will be of use to both readers who wish for a comprehensive understanding of a large range of finds from the Anglo-Saxon period and those readers more concerned with how these finds can be used to inform the bigger picture.

The study will show the great extent to which the fifth and sixth centuries represented a time of great flux in the creation of the material world in Essex. New modes of dress are seen in this part of Britain for the first time, reflecting Insular and continental links. Furthermore, the pottery and coinage data show the beginnings of a new cycle of development after the Roman period.

In sum, the evidence indicates a widespread and deep cultural transition. The archaeology of Essex indicates that overseas cultures were highly influential in shaping daily life and the creation of new modes of expression. It will be argued that the evidence is best explained by a theory that incorporates some element of large-scale migration from various parts of continental north-western Europe. Importantly, however, the influences brought by migrants and the traded items show strong links with a number of areas on the opposing shore of the North Sea and English Channel, as well as in Britain. It is not apparent that one specific culture was transposed. Rather cultural practice and expression were constructed from a range of traditions.