|
Date: |
|
Description: | An incomplete cast copper-alloy object of uncertain function. One terminal end survives, the remainder now missing due to old breaks. The object has a square sectioned shaft that tapers towards old breaks and has moulded decoration. This comprises a single transverse collar just before the old breaks, with a larger collar at the juncture with the terminal formed from four transverse ribs that decrease in size towards the terminal end. The terminal itself is rectangular in form and section with slightly curved lower edge where it tapers towards the shaft, and semi-circular notches at each side. It has openwork decoration comprising a large central trefoil motif, above which the upper edge of the terminal has a transverse moulded rib. Projecting from the centre of the upper edge is an integrally cast terminal knop in the form of an elongated spike that is lozenge shaped in section and tapers to a rounded point. The entire object has a dark brown/grey patina and traces of copper-alloy corrosion in places, particularly at the openwork trefoil. It measures 83.00mm in length, 38.22mm in width (at terminal, 7.37mm at shaft), 6.31mm in thickness (at terminal, 12.75mm at shaft/collar), and weighs 32.17g.The precise form and function of this object remain uncertain. Its decorative elements, particularly the moulded collars, recall Roman metalwork and in particular Roman key handles although no close parallel is noted with the current object. The projecting spike may have been functional and suggests potential insertion into wood or similar material that no-longer survives. Precisely how this would have enabled the object to function is unclear due to its preservation. Although similarities with Roman metalwork can be seen, a later date in the Medieval period cannot be ruled ot entirely until such time as a close parallel is identified.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
|
More Like this...
-
-
PIN
An incomplete cast copper-alloy pin…
-
-
-
-
SPUR
An incomplete cast copper-alloy object…
-
-
BROOCH
An incomplete copper-alloy Hod Hill…
-
MOUNT
A cast copper-alloy object, perhaps…
-
|