BUCKLE

Complete cast copper alloy double looped (spectacle) buckle of post-medieval date (1550-1650). The frame of the buckle is sub-rectangular (rectangular with rounded corners) in plan with a central bar to which the pin is fitted. The pin is formed from a single tapering sheet that has been secured by wrapping the widest terminal around the bar. At either end of the buckle frame are tri-lobed projections. Each of these projections have been pierced and filed to create an irregular cross. The buckle measures 58.2mm long, 27mm wide, is 2.3mm thick and weighs 9.64 grams.

The buckle is a light green colour with a slightly abraded patina that covers all surfaces. The rear face of the buckle is rough and pitted. This is likely to be a result of poor casting rather than corrosion,; a light green patina identical to that present on the front face is present suggesting that these pock marks are relatively old. Movement in the ploughsoil has resulted in the buckle becoming asymmetrical. Similar examples to this buckle can be seen in Ross Whitehead's book 'Buckles 1250 - 1800', pages 69-72, although a direct parallel for this form of decoration is not illustarted. Whitehead suggests that these buckles date from the post medieval period (1550 - 1650).