An elaborate Anglo-Saxon brooch that is more than 1,000 years old may be exported if a UK buyer is not found who will pay at least £8,000 for it.

The gilt bronze brooch, from the late 8th century, is one of just 12 such ornaments in existence, and it stands out from the rest for the skill and creativity employed in the creation of its unique complex leaf pattern, which could represent the Christian tree of life.

An illustration dating from the same period of the Virgin Mary in the Book of Kells shows her wearing a similar brooch, suggesting they were worn by high-status women.

Experts said the brooch is of outstanding significance for the study of Anglo-Saxon art and material culture, but it could be exported unless a UK buyer matches the £8,460 asking price.

Culture minister Ed Vaizey has put a temporary export bar on the brooch in the hope of finding a buyer to keep it in the UK.

He said: “This rare and beautiful brooch gives us a fascinating glimpse into what life was like over 1,000 years ago.

“With an object as old and as rare as this one, it is important that we protect it for the UK in order to help us better understand what life, society and culture was like during Anglo-Saxon times.

“I hope that the temporary export bar that I have put in place will result in a UK buyer coming forward to buy this brooch and save it for the nation.”

Vaizey made the decision following a recommendation by the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest.

Committee member Leslie Webster said: “This beautiful object has intriguing stories to tell and it would be a marvellous acquisition for a UK museum.”

The decision on issuing an export licence is deferred until 26 January to allow the chance for a UK buyer to come forward, a period that could be extended to 26 March if a serious intention to raise funds to purchase it at the recommended price is made.