STRAP FITTING

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

The strap loop is rectangular in plan, 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 lines. The sides and base of the frame are plain and undecorated. Two copper alloy rivets have been inserted through the base of the frame, probably as the original method of attachment to the strap.

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

It measures 22.33mm long, 24.11mm wide and the frame is 4.95mm thick. The maximum thickness of the top decoration is 7.51mm. The strap loop weighs 5.0 grams.

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.