|
Date: |
|
Description: | A complete copper alloy strap mounted terret ring of late Iron Age to Roman date. The terret is of the 'simple' type and comprises an ovate loop and integral rectangular basal strap loop to the lower edge. The loop is widest at the base, to either side of the strap bar, and tapers in diameter to the top. The rectangular bar has a slight projection to the lower edge. The junctions between the loop and bar have integral circular collars with circumferential grooves around the edge. The metal has a crisp brown patina and is worn. The terret is 50.5mm long, 46.2mm wide, 3.7mm thick at the bar. The loop is 5.2mm in diameter and the collars are 13.5mm in diameter. The object weighs 29.2g.Similar terret rings have been recorded on the PAS database as LEIC-76003A, LANCUM-DC5F14, and LVPL-2F6BC0.Terret rings were used as rein guides on chariots or carts used during the Late Iron Age to Early Roman period. They were set in a line along the yoke and five terrets were usually used per chariot. This suggested function is supported by evidence of wear or fractures on many examples. The Stanwick / Melsonby hoard included a complete set of such horse trappings.Lewis (2015, p.87) discusses the longevity of simple terrets stating that the earliest examples come from the 3rd or 2nd century BC chariot burials in the East Riding though examples are known into the second half of the 1st century AD.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/ | Go to resource |
|
|