UNIDENTIFIED OBJECT

An incomplete lead artefact of uncertain function but decorative bawdy nature. This incomplete item weighs 108.04g, and measures a maximum width of 62.3mm, height of 57.2mm and maximum thickness of 8.3mm. The fragment is an irregular 'L' shape initially looking as though it is just an indistinct flattened blob. The cast relief moulded design on one side is evidence that this is indeed something of specific design that has sustained damage rather than a waste off-cut or melted waste scrap. The design, although partially unclear, seems to show a human form bent in half, arms curved around the legs to hold them close to the body with feet over the shoulders. The head, positioned between the lower half of the legs, shows no details but instead is represented as just a shaped mound. The torso is assumed by the viewer due to the presence and position of the other body parts but does not seem to have been actually portrayed. A relief crescent around and below the buttocks is incomplete due to a break. This crescent could possibly represent a skirt pulled back to reveal the legs and buttocks. However, the detail on this object is not sufficient to determine a definite sex to the individual shown. A naked buttocks and legs is alluded to but not definitely defined by the design of this artefact. An integral blank irregular to sub-rectangular tab projects out to the right (as viewed - away from the left buttock of the shown individual) occupying the horizontal part of the vague 'L' shape. It is not certain what this part was for. On the reverse surface there is an indentation which may suggest that an attachment perforation had been half-heartedly attempted. Apart from the break through the decorative crescent and irregular artefact outline there are no clear breaks. However, it seems difficult to make sense of the original form and intended use. The reverse surface is undecorated.

Discussion: This item may have been intended to be a decorative mount but left uncompleted. Probably of later Post-Medieval to early Modern date but copying Sheela-na-gig depictions. See http://www.sheelanagig.org/wordpress/ particularly the examples at Twywell near Kettering and Darley Dale in Derbyshire. Also compare to the 'mooning gargoyle' on Glinton parish Church, the parish neighbouring the find spot of this artefact. See http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/5324503 although on that example the hands hold the buttocks rather than grasping the legs mid way along their length.