BOOK FITTING

An incomplete copper alloy book fitting of post medieval date (c.AD 1400-1600). The object is the hook-piece of a book clasp of Howsam's type A3, with complete hook. The object consists of two plates riveted together between which remains a small amount of organic material, no doubt a piece of the book it was formerly attached to.

The object has a sub-rectangular body that gradually expands in width from the hook end to the scalloped attachment end, where it finally flares at the terminal edge. At the top of the clasp is a small sub-rectangular hook with a rounded end. Below this is a rectangular collar that expands slightly beyond the main body of the clasp. The collar is divided longitudinally by a groove. Below the collar is a series of parallel lines running to the terminal of the clasp. At the centre of the clasp is a motif of concentric circles, above which is rivet which still attaches the second plate to the reverse of the clasp. At the lower end of the clasp are three circular perforations positioned an equal distance apart. These perforations are positioned at the beginning of the flared form of the clasp which has an incised leaf design. Below the the perforations are two rivets securing the second plate in place. Both rivets survive, but one is broken away from the top plate and is securing a small piece of leather. The end of the clasp terminates in a scalloped form with flared and pointed ends, one of which has broken off. The reverse of the clasp is undecorated and presents the securely attached back plate.The object has a light brown patina with patches of bright green corrosion.

Dimensions: Length 49.6mm; width 15mm; thickness 1.95mm; weight 7.66g