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Description: | Cast copper alloy strap fitting (belt mount) of probable post-medieval date (1500-1700). The strap fitting is oval in plan with two sub-circular cast knops at either end. The body of the fitting is domed (convex) in profile and D shaped in cross-section; the edges are beveled. The overall decorative design is that of an acorn with both the nut and cup being depicted. The decoration of the nut consists of vertical incised lines, whilst that on the cup is formed from a series of deeply incised diagonal lines forming cross hatching. Small traces of an applied tinned finish are present on the front face of the fitting. The reverse face of the fitting is concave with two cast sub-rectangular projections (hooks) which are both broken. These hooks would pass through the strap leather and hold the fitting in place. The fitting measures 37.4mm in length, 21.8mm width, is 5.4mm thick and weighs 5.52 grams.The fitting is a mid green brown colour with an abraded worn patina that covers all surfaces. There is a small amount of light green powdery corrosion present on the body of the fitting; this coincides with the areas of most significant abrasion. Similar examples of strap fittings can be seen in Brian Read's book 'Metal Artefacts of Antiquity' (pages 33-37 specifically ref: 331-334).
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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