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Description: | A complete Early Post Medieval copper alloy book clasp, dating to circa AD 1500-1700.The clasp is rectangular in plan with parallel sides. At one end the outer edge slightly flares to a serrated edge. Below this outer edge are two rivet holes with the rivets still in situ. The book clasp then extends with parallel sides to a terminal with a flat edge that in the centre has an integral hook that has been folded towards the reverse of the clasp. The front panel is decorated with two incised concentric circles in the centre, surrounding a circular hole. The rectangular panel below the hook is decorated with two rows of incised dashes. Below this, leading into the main body, are a series of incised lines. The area around the serrated edge is decorated with three circular holes in a row, and three pointed leaf motifs extending into the body.Margeson (1993) illustrates a number of book fittings all dating to the Early Post Medieval period. Examples 453 and 454 have been decorated with pierced holes and have serrated edges. Margeson describes how Early Post Medieval book clasps were riveted in position. The hook similar to this example, would have then attached to an 'eye' plate on the cover of the book to keep it closed. The clasp measures 65mm in length, 27 mm in width, 6.32 mm thickness and weighs 4.8g.Margeson: S. (1993) Norwich Households: The Medieval and Post Medieval finds from Norwich Survey Excavations 1971-1978. Norwich, Norfolk Museums Service.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/ | Go to resource |
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