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Description: | An incomplete cast copper 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 hooked terminal is lost and the break is worn and eroded suggested a relatively old break. The body of the fitting is relatively flat with a sub-rectangular cross-section. The hooked terminal was probably formed by bending the lower part of the fitting back upon itself to form a U shaped hook. The remains of 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 debased trefoil. There are also a series of cast floral decorations along the length. These are much worn but represent a stylised leaf and are formed from curvilinear cast grooves. The plate has been pierced by two central rivet holes; one in the upper half and one in the lower. The reverse of the fitting is plain and undecorated. The strap fitting is a mid-light green colour with an uneven patina. 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 (with an almost identical hooked mount) is shown in Brian Read's book 'Metal Artefacts of Antiquity' (pages 39 and 43, figure 373).The strap fitting measures 35.9mm in length, 21.7mm width, is 2.2mm thick and weighs 6.45 grams.
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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