UNIDENTIFIED OBJECT

A copper alloy unidentified object, possibly dating to the Medieval period.

The object comprises a broadly rectangular body, with a rectangular cross section, with three internally cast projections extending sideways from one edge. The centrally placed projection is triangular in plan, while those situated at each terminal are semi-circular in plan with a circular perforation possibly for attachment. One of these projections and perforations is now incomplete. Above these larger circular perforations situated in the body of the object are two smaller circular perforations. On the opposite edge in the centre is a bifurcated projecting tab or lug.

Decoration comprises a series of transverse grooves extending from the shorter edges which extend to approximately parallel with the circular perforations. At the long edge between the semi-circular projections are seven incised grooves that extend from the long edge to the same level as the smaller circular perforations. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The object has a mid-green coloured surface patina. Thanks are given to Dr Kevin Leahy, National Finds Adviser for the PAS in Early Medieval metalwork. He suggested the object is not an Early Medieval sleeve clasp although the form of the object shares some parallels.

The sleeve clasp measures in 42.46 mm in length, 25.78 in width, 2.31 mm in thickness and weighs 7.9 grams.