PURSE

An incomplete copper alloy Purse Bar of late Medieval to early Post Medieval date (AD 1450-1550). The object is composed of two arms which are sub-rectangular in both plan and cross section and have expanded sub-rectangular terminals with a knop at either end. On the lower edge of each arm are integrally cast roughly rectangular flanges pierced twice. These would have acted as suspension loops for a leather or cloth purse. Each arm thickens at the centre of the frame to flank an integrally cast sub-rectangular box with a hole from top to bottom. This hole would have enabled the attachment of the suspension loop, now missing, and allowed the purse to rotate. The purse suspension loop would probably have been ovoid in plan with tapering sides and remains D-shaped in cross section. The central box is flanked by a double stepped moulded ridge.

Both sides of the bars arms are decorated with an incised/engraved linear pattern. The central rectangular element is decorated on one side with a central transverse line flanked by a saltire on either side. The other side is decorated with an offset, double chevron pattern. The pattern is inlaid with niello. The arms are decorated with a transverse line at either end, following the line of the projecting lower attachment loops. Between the linear border two double saltires on each arm which run over the top of the arm onto the alternate face which gives the impression of a double chevron on each side.

The metal is a dark green in colour with a slightly pitted patina.

Length: 173.36mm, Width (with loops): 13.67mm, Width (arms): 9.69mm, Thickness (arms): 8.02mm, Length (central box): 16.93mm, Thickness (central box): 11.43mm, Height (central box): 15.57mm, Weight: 70.80g.

Similar purse bars have been discussed by Ward Perkins in the Museum of London Medieval Catalogue. He classifies this type as Type A2 which is distinguished from the other types by its lack of ornamental decoration, and the use of an inlayed religious or talismanic inscription. Ward Perkins suggests that this type dates to the late medieval period c.1490 (pp163-165). More recent dating suggest a date of 1450 - 1550.