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Description: | Cast copper alloy strap fitting (belt mount) of probable post-medieval date (1500-1700). The strap fitting is irregular in plan and sub-rectangular in profile; the edges are bevelled / faceted. The overall decorative design consists of a pierced panel from which a tri-lobed terminal projects. The pierced plate part has been decorated with an irregular 'heart-shaped' hole. The projection is decorated as (possibly) an acorn. It is possible that the upper surface has been decorated with an applied tin surface. The reverse face of the fitting is irregular but broadly flat and undecorated. The reverse shows evidence of latitudinal file marks. Two cast sub-rectangular projections (hooks) extend from either end of the fitting. Both of these are broken and one definitely repaired by a pierced hole through which a rivet attached. These hooks would have passed through the strap leather and held the fitting in place. The fitting measures 25.5mm length, 11.8mm width, is 4.2mm thick and weighs 1.46 grams. The strap fitting is a mid brown green colour with an abraded 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 34-37).
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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