Ugly HEAVY Bench (Anglo-Saxon)

I acquired this bench at an estate because it was so ugly that I loved it!! After looking further at it once I got it home, I noticed some markings underneath that read: A.s. 781

I did some research and learned that this could be an Anglo-Saxon piece! If you look closely at the side view, you can see a bird design within the scroll pattern.

This bench is so heavy!! Possibly cast iron, if not wrought iron. I am open to any info or suggestion anyone may have as to the history of this piece!

Thanks!!