THIMBLE

Cast copper alloy (possibly brass) "bee-hive" or "heavy duty" thimble of later medieval date (1400-1550). The thimble is complete although distorted and crushed by movement in the soil. The thimble is broadly D shaped in profile with gentle sloping sides and a shallow domed top and it is broadly circular in plan. There are no notches or folds present at the base or around the rim. The sides slope and taper toward the shallow domed top. The sides have a series of indentations around them. These are arranged in horizontal circumferential linear bands which are relatively evenly spaced. The indentations themselves are broadly circular in plan and become smaller toward the top of the thimbles dome; they are also filled with soil. The lower band of indentations are incomplete - a scratched mark is present in the gap created - this mark is possibly initials N E - or possibly a punched stamp - Agnes Dei / crown. The thimble is a mid green colour with an uneven polished surface patina. Similar thimbles have been dated to the later part of the medieval period (1400-1550) by Edwin Holmes (Sewing Thimbles FRG Datasheet 9). This type, is commonly known as a beehive thimble, however Holmes identifies them as being "heavy duty" in nature and use.

The thimble measures 17.5mm high, 21.0mm diameter, the side walls are formed from metal 1.2mm thick. The thimble weighs 4.10 grams.