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Description: | A complete cast copper alloy single loop folding strap clasp fastener of Medieval dating (c.1300 - 1450 AD).The strap clasp consists of three parts: The frame, the plate and the folding end.The frame is rectangular in plan and is composite in nature as a separate spindle has been inserted at the top for the folding end. A hole has been drilled on each side of the frame for this spindle. The folding end consists of a rectangular plate, folded around the spindle, and folding half way across the frame. A rectangular bar mount has been riveted in place, using a centrally located copper alloy rivet. The strap plate has been made from sheet metal, and folded around the bar, the edges being recessed to allow for the strap frame. Neither side of the strap plate appears to have been decorated and no rivets are present for securing the strap plate to a leather or other textile strap.The strap clasp is a mid to dark green colour, with an even surface patina. It is in good condition, with few signs of abrasion present. Traces of the original clay soil are still present, both on the surface of the strap clasp and between the two sides of the strap plate.In total, the strap clasp measures 42.85mm in length, 13.15mm wide and 6.55mm thick. The Strap plate measures 28.62mm long, 10.96mm wide and 3.08mm thick. The sheet metal for the strap plate measures 0.71mm thick. The frame is 15.25mm long, 12.95mm wide and 3.29mm thick. The frame itself is 0.85mm thick. The folding end is 9.73mm long, 12.26mm wide and 6.00mm thick. The metal of the folding end is 0.62mm thick. The bar mount measures 5.00mm long, 11.29mm wide and 2.81mm thick. All together, the strap clasp measures 5.6 grams.Several similar examples have been published including #553 (Egan, 1991, 117-118), and #226 (Whitehead, 2003, p40). Both are considered to be 14th Century in dating (c.1330 - c. 1380). Strap clasps are a typical Medieval find, although their exact use still remain uncertain. It is probable that this type, with a bar mount on the folding end would have worked in conjunction with a shield shaped strap end, as they have a projection and a corresponding recess, to allow the ends to be secured together.Reference:Egan, G. 1991 Buckles in Egan & Pritchard, 1991, pp.50-123Egan, G. and Pritchard, F. 1991. Dress Accessories. Medieval Finds from Excavations in London: 3. The Stationary office/ Museum of London.Whitehead, R. 2003 Buckles 1250 - 1800. Greenlight Publishing. Witham.
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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