STRAP FITTING

Cast copper alloy hooked strap fitting of probable post-medieval date (1500-1700). The strap fitting is sub-rectangular (square shield shaped) in plan and the edges are slightly faceted. The body of the fitting is relatively flat with a sub-rectangular cross-section. From the lower edge a sub-rectangular shank extends; originally it would have had turned to form a U shaped hook which is now broken. The body of the fitting is symmetrical in plan; however it does taper and flare along its length. The front face of the plate is decorated with a number of cast motifs. These consist of a series of symmetrical floral designs which interlink and cover the front face of the fitting. The areas between the raised design is filled with a black coloured substance - possibly a blackened linseed oil. The body plate has been pierced by three rivet holes; forming an irregular triangle. The rivets are iron and have corroded distorting the floral design. The reverse of the central plate is plain and undecorated.

The artefact is a mid-green colour with an abraded patina that covers all surfaces. The abrasion has resulted in making the strap fitting slightly asymmetrical. Light green active corrosion is present on most abraded surfaces. Similar examples of hooked strap fittings have been dated to the post medieval period, specifically the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries (1550 - 1650). A similar example of this type fitting is shown in Brian Read's book 'Metal Artefacts of Antiquity' (pages 39 and 42, figure 366). A further example has been recorded from Cressage, Shropshire (HESH-E3F096).

The strap fitting measures 42.2mm in length, 28.6mm width and is 3.5mm thick. It weighs 9.11 grams.