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Description: | Cast copper alloy hooked strap fitting of probable post-medieval date (1500-1700). The strap fitting is broadly sub-rectangular in plan. The fitting can be divided into two separate parts; the body and the hooked terminal. The body of the fitting is relatively flat with a sub-rectangular cross-section; whereas the hook is sub-triangular (D shaped). The hooked terminal has been formed by bending the lower part of the fitting back upon itself to form a U shaped hook. This hook is undecorated and tapers slightly along its length and terminates in a sub-rounded knop. The upper part of the hook flares into the decorated body of the strap fitting. The body of the fitting is sub-rectangular in plan; however it does taper and flare along its length terminating in a flared trefoil. There are a series of cast floral decorations along the length. These decorations represent two stylised leaves around a central flower (fleur-de-lys). They are all formed from a number of curvilinear cast grooves. The plate has been pierced by two central rivet holes; one in the upper half and one in the lower. These holes pierce through the decoration. The reverse of the fitting is plain and undecorated; however the two rivet holes have been countersunk on the reverse. The strap fitting measures 46.9mm in length, 20.9mm width, is 4.1mm thick and weighs 7.18 grams. The strap fitting is a mid-dark green colour with an even well formed patina. The lower part of the strap fitting has been bent, probably by movement in the ploughsoil. Similar examples of hooked strap fittings are dated by Sue Margeson in 'Norwich Households' to the post medieval period, specifically the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries (1550 - 1650). She also suggests that this type of hooked fitting or mount is closely associated with sword belts and scabbard fittings. A complete example of this type of sword belt fitting is shown in Brian Read's book 'Metal Artefacts of Antiquity' (pages 39 and 43, figure 373).
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
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