CLASP

A complete Medieval (AD 1300-1400) copper alloy strap clasp frame with anthropomorphic decoration, in the form of a face broadly similar in style to the Kings head clasps.

The clasp frame is sub-rectangular in plan and 'U' shaped in cross-section with upturned sides. The bar is narrowed for the (missing) plate while the outside edge is elaborately decorated with an integrally cast head. The U-shaped face stands proud of the edge with clearly incised pointed-oval eyes, a large nose and an open horizontal mouth. Chin and possibly a beard can be seen underneath. The head displays detailed grooved hair at the top but there appears to be none on the sides; also there may be a flat cap.

The underneath of the frame is plain and undecorated and set at a slight angle. The patina is smooth and dark green.

Of the strap clasp in general Gilmore writes 'Some have a pin present, suggesting that they operated as a buckle as opposed to a clasp. The difference between a buckle and a clasp in this situation is the presence or absence of a pin, which means in the absence of a strap plate, or evidence on the frame, it is hard, if not impossible to determine if a particular example operated as a clasp or a buckle. However it is worth noting that the frame seemed to function for both purposes....More work needs to be done to locate stratified examples, to confirm that the dating is 14th Century' (Gilmore 2011, http://finds.org.uk/blogs/westmidlands/2011/01/06/kings-head-strap-clasps-or-buckles/).