STRAP FITTING

An incomplete copper alloy possible swivel strap fitting of possible Roman date, AD 43 to AD 410.

The object is sub rectangular in plan and in cross section. It has a main central rectangular section which is decorated with a central rectangular ridge with a groove running down the centre. It is formed to a ridge on either side and is flanked by two circular perforations which hold a circular copper alloy rivet. No enamel is present within the circular holes.These rivet holes are one on top of the other. This decoration is repeated on the reverse of the object, although the reverse has sustained some damage. Flanking the main central rectangular section would have been two extending curved hooks, half of the left side hook still remains. These extend out from the side of the rectangular section and curve round. There is a ridge present at the top of each curve where it joins to the rectangular section. The base has a large circular perforation in the centre which holds the remains of a copper alloy shaft, this perforation is flanked by a rectangular section on either side. The top of the object is in the shape of a plain cross and also has a circular perforation in the centre, also showing the remains of the shaft.

The object measures 23.3 mm in length and is 33.6 mm wide. It has a thickness of 14.1 mm, the circular perforations measure 4.6 mm at the top and 8.3 mm at the base. The object weighs 28.2 g.

The object is a green in colour and has an even surface patina. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil has resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail.

XRF analysis of this swivel, using a handheld XRF machine has indicated that it has been made from copper, lead, tin with trace amounts of iron.