MOUNT

A copper-alloy mount, probably Medieval. It is sub-rectangular in shape with both of the long edges inwardly curving towards the flat transverse end terminals. It has a dark green patina. Overall length: 65.0mm. Weight: 6.21g

The front is convex and close inspection of the upper moulded surface reveals the undulating sides of the mount are in the shape of a fish's profile. One end, which accounts for 11.0mm of the total length has linear decoration arranged from a longitudinal angle. These splay out and represent the tail of the fish. The terminal at this end has a width of 12.80mm narrowing towards the fish's body to 8.60mm. The main body accounts for 28.0mm of the total length and is decorated in a low relief scalloped pattern which represents fish scales. This central part has a maximum width of 13.3mm. A rivet hole is present (2.10mm diameter) and situated 3.60mm and 10.10mm in from the two undulating sides respectively. A curved double parallel line separates the main body from the head where there is an outline of an eye. This section has been extended forwards and outwards to allow for a fixing point. This may suggest it is an open- mouthed fish. There is evidence of three rivet holes in total, which are all off centre.

The reverse is concave to a depth of 2.9mm and has a thickened rim. Directly under the central rivet hole the thickened rim expands towards the centre (2.50mm), which would have accommodated the rivet and held it securely. This has been filled in by corrosion products. Both ends also have these expanded solid edges for the same purpose.

The mount is of uncertain function but due to the fish shape and decoration could possibly have had a Christian connection. The mount may have been fixed to a book cover, a casket or a strap.