EAR SCOOP

A complete copper alloy toilet implement, probably of medieval date. The implement has a drop-shaped scoop at one terminal, which is convex on the underside and concave on the upper surface. The shank leads from the scoop, is rectangular in section, and tapers slightly. At the central portion of the remaining shank there is a simple twisted section. After the twisted section the shank widens as it is flattened and then tapers terminating to a point The surface of the item has a tarnished green grey surface.

The scoop end may have been used as an ear scoop, while the pointed end may have been used as a nail cleaner or probe.

Cosmetic implements such as this ear scoop have been used over a long period of time from the Roman period onwards. The form of this example however, with the twisted handle, suggests it is later in date. Numerous similar cosmetic articles have been reported as Treasure and recorded on the PAS database. For examples see 2010 T383 (DENO-9EE9E7), 2014 T733 (SWYOR-512F28), 2013 T41 (LVPL-935524), 2014 T403 (WMID-6283C3), and 2017 T677 (BERK-94F0F4). Examples are also known in copper alloy; see Egan and Pritchard, 'Dress Accessories', 1991, Numbers 1758-1760. These objects are from 14th century contexts and a similar date is suggested for this example.

Dimensions: Length: 74.4mm Width: 4.8mm, thickness 2.3mm and weight 1.8g