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Description: | An incomplete copper alloy book fitting or clasp, of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1500 to AD 1650).Approximately 90% of the book fitting is present, consisting of the main section and the hook. The strap attachment end is incomplete.The book fitting is sub rectangular in plan, with concave sides. One end, the strap attachment end, flares in plan and forms a 'fishtail' shape with the outer edge incomplete. Two circular sectioned copper alloy rivets remain in place, securing the front plate to the back plate, with the remains of a leather strap between them. The back plate is plain and undecorated. The opposite end widens slightly and has a projecting integral blunt hook which turns down through an angle of around 45 degrees. The front of the book fitting has been decorated. A large ring and dot design is present at the centre. At the hook end, a series of fine horizontal lines of different lengths, making a zig zag style line. The other end of the book clasp has been decorated with multiple thin engraved diagonal lines in a feather style design. These 'feathers' reach up to three small circular holes (internal diameter 2.0 mm) in a curved line. The long edges of the book clasp are bevelled.The book fitting measures 63.2 mm in length, a maximum width of 24.9 mm and is 4.5 mm thick (including rivets). It weighs 14.0 g.The book fitting is a mid green to mid brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the plough soil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface detail.The form and decoration are typical of book clasps of the early post-medieval period, as discussed by Margeson (1993: 74). Many similar example can be seen on the PAS database e.g. YORYM-9FEF34 and SOM-1D5355.Reference:Margeson, S. 1993. Norwich Households: The Medieval and Post-Medieval Finds from Norwich Survey Excavations 1971-1978. East Anglian Archaeology 58. Witley Press, Hunstanton.
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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