BUCKLE

An incomplete cast copper alloy forked spacer from a composite buckle of medieval date (1300-1450 AD). The spacer frame is oval in plan with a lentoid projection (acorn knop) at one end and two scars from linear diagonal angled projections at the other. In profile the spacer frame is sub rectangular and in cross section it is oval. The pin and other plates are missing. There is no recess on the frame for a pin rest . The only element of decoration present is the single lentoid shaped projection. This projection is thicker than the rest of the frame and has a single linear collar around its base. It is probable that this was originally an acorn design. The forked spacer is a mid green colour with an even but abraded patina which covers all surfaces. A series of diagonal filed marks are present on both faces - these are beneath the patinated surface. Several similar composite buckles can be seen in Geoff Egan' Dress Accessories 1150-1450 pages 78-82. These composite buckles are dated to the late 14th and early 15th centuries and although mass produced were labour intensive and of the best quality available.

The forked spacer measures 25.3mm in length, 10.1mm in width, is 2.6mm thick across the knop and 2.0mm across the plate; it weighs 3.25 grams.