HARNESS MOUNT

A cast copper alloy, quatrefoil shaped harness stud or mount, dating to the medieval period (1250-1400 AD). The mount has a quatrefoil shape in plan and is slightly domed. The face of the object contains a large shield shape in centre, bearing the three lions passant guardant of England. Red enamel survives on the lions within the shield while there is possible evidence of gilding on field. There is a single attachment shank or stud on reverse, the surface of which is rough with no decoration.

For a similar object on the Portable Antiquities database see: HAMP-73C704. Below is an extract from the entry explaining the symbolism displayed on the mount.

'Mrs Irene Szymanski notes - the arms on the central shield are England Ancient (gules, three lions passant guardant in pale or), which were in use until approximately 1340. The three fleurs-de-lys on a blue ground around the shield draw on the arms of France Ancient (azure, semy de lys or). An alternative, probably earlier, version of this piece replaces the fleurs-de-lys with three Romanesque dragon-like beasts; the presence of the fleur-de-lys here may refer to the links between the English crown and the French, English claims on the French throne, or royal marriages. Edward I and his son took French brides: Edward I married the French king's sister, Margaret, in September 1299, whilst his son Edward was betrothed to Margaret's niece, Isabella, the marriage taking place in France in January 1308.'

Dimensions: Length - 30.25mm, Width- 30.22mm, Thickness- 2.71mm, Weight- 12.3g