WEIGHT

Cast lead or lead alloy weight of probable Medieval - Post Medieval date (1350 - 1650). The weight is broadly circular in plan and regular in cross section. The upper face has been decorated with a series of marks which form a vertical / horizontal hatched area at the centre of the weight. It is possible within these lines to discern a square shaped shield, however the design is indistinct. It is also possible that there is a small axe shaped punched mark below this shield. The axe is in the form of the medieval knights axe hammer with a central spike, punch and hammer / axe. Again this is indistinct. The reverse face has similar lentoid hatched marks possibly in the shape of a wreath around the outer edge. These marks though may not be decorative. The edge of the weight is faceted and the two inner designs on either face are recessed with a clear ridge / rim. The weight is a mid grey colour with an even, but slightly corroded and abraded, patina which covers all surfaces. This example is most likely to date from the later medieval or post medieval periods similar weights can be seen in Biggs and Withers Lead Weights, pages 23-26, although a direct parallel has not been found. The weight measures 33.5mm in diameter and is 4.6mm thick. It weighs 32.82 grams or 1.16ozs (507 grains).