UNIDENTIFIED OBJECT

Cast copper alloy fragment of unknown function – most likely to be part of a harness of later Iron Age or Roman date (200 BC – 400 AD). The fragment is cast in one piece; it consists of four circles conjoined on their edges to form an irregular quatrefoil in plan. In cross section the artefact is sub-rectangular. Through the centre of the quatrefoil is an irregular sub-rectangular hole, it is positioned at the junction between the four circles. The hole measures 5.4mm x 3.6mm. Each of the four circles differs in size, although they seem to be ordered with the largest example (diameter 12.5mm) being at the top, the two next largest (12mm and 11.6mm) being conjoined to form the sides and the smallest one (diameter 9.4mm) being positioned at the base. The surface seems to be uniform and there is no evidence of cast, applied or incised decoration. From one edge a small scar is present; it is possible that this may have been the remains of a loop; although equally it could be the remains of the casting jet. The artefact is a mid green brown colour with a much abraded and corroded patina which in places is laminating. A direct parallel has not been found due to the fragmentary nature. The patina would suggest a later Iron Age date and the shape is similar to a number of strap distributors and harness related fittings from this period, although a complete similar example has not been found. The artefact measures 27.4mm length, 25.6mm width is 6.9mm thick and weighs 16.19 grams.