THIMBLE

Cast copper-alloy (possibly brass) "bee-hive" or "heavy duty" thimble of later medieval date (c. AD 1400 - 1550). The thimble is complete and broadly D shaped in plan with sloping sides that taper from a circular base towards a shallow domed top. The rim of the thimble is decorated with a single circumferential groove. There are notches present around the base. The sides have eleven rows of indentations arranged in horizontal circumferential linear bands which are relatively evenly spaced. Each horizontal band is staggered creating a non-tessellating pattern. The indentations are regular and broadly circular in plan. The top of the thimble has one single drilled hole at the apex; apart from this it is relatively smooth with a polished patina. The interior of the thimble is plain and undecorated. The thimble is a mid-green colour with an even patina on the exterior and interior, though the interior is also partially covered with a light beige surface.

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 12.88mm length, 16.87mm diameter at the base, formed from 1.15mm thick metal, and weighs 3.45grams.