STRAP FITTING

A complete copper alloy strap loop / fitting, of Medieval dating (c.1350 - c.1450 AD).

The strap loop is rectangular, and sub rectangular in cross section. It consists of a trapezoidal frame with moulded decoration on the top surface. The decoration on the top exhibits pronounced knops at each end and one in the middle. The central one has been further decorated by a series of horizontal and vertical lines. The sides and base of the frame are plain and undecorated. A circular perforation is present on the base of the frame, with an internal diameter of 1.8 mm. This would have originally held a copper alloy rivet, as part of the original method of attachment to the strap.

It measures 20.9 mm in length, is 27.1 mm wide and 5.6 mm thick. The maximum thickness of the top decoration is 4.0 mm. The strap loop weighs 4.7 grams.

The strap loop is a mid to dark green colour, with an even surface patina.

Strap loops were used during the medieval period as a method of holding down loose parts of straps. Two main types are present: those with rivets (either integral when external, or separate when internal to the frame) and those with a pair of opposed projections. Strap loops with the style of decoration seen in this example are commonly those with a pair of opposed projections instead of the internal riveted style. Egan (1991) has published a couple of suitable parallels from the excavations on the London waterfront. #1247 and #1263 (Egan, 1991, p231-233), are similar style frames, one with decoration and one with the internal rivet, both have been dated to Ceramic phass 11 (c.1350 - c.1400). It is reasonable to assume that this example is of a similar date.

Reference:
Egan, G. 1991 Mounts in Egan & Pritchard, 1991, pp.162-243
Egan, G. and Pritchard, F. 1991. Dress Accessories. Medieval Finds from Excavations in London: 3. The Stationary office/ Museum of London.