POWDER MEASURE

A complete and misshapen cast lead cap for a powder measure of post-Medieval date (1600-1700). The cap was used for measuring a charge of gunpowder. It is squashed and misshapen and there is a ragged tear at the edge of the closed end. Originally, the open end would have been circular or perhaps oval in plan. The open end has a slight rim and the sides tapered to the oval base. At each end of the base is an integral loop for attachment. Above one of the loops there is a vertical casting seam with a small amount of sprue. The surfaces have superficial lead corrosion products. 20.0 x 31.6 x 20.7mm. Weight: 25.92g. (the weight includes a small amount of soil within). The loops enabled the cap to be attached separately to the bandolier (belt) of the wearer so that they could be removed without the possibility of being dropped and lost. The cap would have been part of a powder-charger or powder-holder, a small flask holding enough powder for a complete charge for the weapon. A series of these holders were attached to the bandolier. For information on small arms accessories of the seventeenth century, see: Courtney, P. 1988. "Small Arms Accessories of the Mid-Seventeenth Century". Finds Research Group 700 - 1700.