Rights Holder: Sussex Archaeological Society
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Unique ID: SUSS-A47666
Object type certainty: Possibly
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation
This item was previously identified as 'A large weight made of lead. The weight is tear-drop shaped, but the reverse is completely flat. The weight is undecorated. The lead has gone a light greyish-white colour. Some damage has occurred to the weight as a result of being hit by the plough, as several scratches and scars are evident on the surface of the weight. This weight is possibly medieval, but most probably post-medieval in date. Due to that fact that so few lead weights have been found in archaeological contexts, only a very broad date range can be allocated. Weight: 156g (5.5oz).'
However, new information suggests that this object could possibly be a Post Medieval cast lead alloy palm guard. The object is plano-convex and is fashioned in a semi-piriform shape. These tools were used to protect the hand when forcing pointed tools through heavy duty textile or leather. Because of the longevity of their simple form only a wide date range of circa 1500 -1800 AD can be assigned to these objects. For a similar object, cf. PAS database record: SUSS-3D9994. [FLO Addendum: Stephanie Smith, 15.11.11]
Class: Palm Guard
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Subperiod from: Early
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Period to: MODERN
Date from: Circa AD 1200
Date to: Circa AD 1900
Quantity: 1
Length: 60 mm
Width: 36.5 mm
Thickness: 15.3 mm
Weight: 156 g
Date(s) of discovery: Saturday 1st May 2004
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Grid reference source: From a paper map
Unmasked grid reference accurate to a 100 metre square.
No references cited so far.
I am correcting this SUSS record to reflect new information that this object is possibly a palm guard for textile work. Information is already added to the record, while preserving the initial identification of this object as a lead alloy weight. -- Stephanie 15.11.11