WEIGHT

A complete cast lead or lead alloy weight, of probable Medieval dating (1300 to 1550 AD).

The weight is an irregular cone in plan, and triangular in profile / cross section. A length of thick iron wire has been inserted into the top of the weight (the flat surface of the cone), probably as a method of suspension. Iron corrosion products present have obscured the original shape of the probable suspension loop.

No decoration is present on the weight. It is a light to mid grey colour, with an even surface patina.

It measures 22.99mm tall, and has a diameter of 20.90mm at the top. It weighs 46.6 grams (1.65 oz).

Weights of this style are frequently encountered, and commonly thought to be of Medieval dating. The iron suspension loop would have aided safe-keeping and storage. Similar weights with iron suspension loops have been dated to the medieval period (Biggs, 1992). A similar weight was published as #76 in Biggs & Withers (2000, p32), although it is more cyclindrial in shape. They have identified it as a probable steelyard poise. However a similar weight with a copper alloy suspension loop was found on the Isle of Man in association with a balance. This example was dated to 8th or 9th Centuries AD (Skinner & Bruce-Mitford, 1940, fig XV), and it was suggested it would have converted the equal arm balance into a form of steelyard.

Lead weights, due to be a functional artefact, do change little in style over time, and as such can be hard to date accurately. Little study has been done to date on typological studies to confirm the dating of different styles. However it is reasonable to assume that this weight is probably Medieval in dating.

Reference:
Biggs,N. 1992 'English Weights - an illustrated survey' p40-41
Biggs, N. & Withers, P. 2000. Lead Weights: The David Rogers Collection. The English Weights Series - 6. White House Publications & Galata Print Ltd. Llanfyllin.
Skinner, F.G. & Bruce-Mitford, R.L.S. 1940. A Celtic Balance-beam of the Christian Period. Antiquaries Journal, 20. pp86-102.