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Description: | Cast copper alloy (or bronze) strap fitting (probably a strap distributor) of later Iron Age date (300 BC - 100 AD). The strap fitting is sub-rectangular (rectangular with rounded corners) in plan and profile with a cast central hole. It is sub oval or D shape in cross section. The fitting measures 39.8mm length, 29.7mm width and is 10.9mm thick. The cast hole is sub rectangular in plan and mirrors the shape of the fitting. The internal cast hole measures 30mm length and 13.1mm width. The thickness of the frame varies from a maximum of 9.9mm to a minimum of 3.6mm. The fitting weighs 29.99 grams. The strap fitting is decorated by a number of cast features which may or may not have a functional role. These elements are sub-circular knops or bosses (4.8mm maximum diameter, 2.2mm maximum thickness). These bosses project from all the surfaces of the fitting. There are 20 projections in total and they are distributed evenly across the outer edges of the harness frame. The upper two corners of the fitting each have four of these knops positioned on all the outer edges. In the middle of the fitting there are three knops on each side and there are a similarly distributed three knops on the base. The harness fitting is a mid brown green colour with an even patina which covers all surfaces. Several areas of the fitting are worn and some of this might be a result of abrasion in the plough soil. However, both the upper and lower ends of the distributor are heavily worn and have an undamaged patina. This suggests that this wear is likely to be linked to use rather than later abrasion in the burial environment. This wear has distorted the profile of the artefact and this along with the abrasion has created an asymmetrical profile.
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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