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STRAP END
Unique ID: SF-FC9739
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation 
A virtually complete though rather worn cast copper-alloy strap end of Thomas' class A, type 1aii (split end strap ends of convex form with zoomorphic terminals and an average ratio of width to length of 1:3:5, demonstrating a single field of Trewhiddle style decoration consisting a single left-facing animal, with head facing forward to the split end) dating to the Early Medieval (Middle Saxon) period, c. 750-900 AD. Only one rivet is missing, the rest of the object preserved intact. It is broadly triangular in plan, demonstrating a straight upper edge with two adjacent dome-headed circular rivets (one missing, as stated) that secure the split-end together. The main body of the strap-end demonstrates gently tapering sides, which frame a single field of Trewhiddle style decoration. The decoration itself takes the form of an upright dragonesque creature, with a pronounced lip lappet and shoulder visible before the lower part of the body degenerates into a somewhat confused portion of interlace. Below this, the sides of the object taper to the zoomorphic terminal, which takes the form of a mouse or bat like creature with a tapered snout and large circular ears. Preserved in fair condition with a somewhat coarse brownish patina despite being bent into an 'L' shape due to post-depositional damage, it measures c. 34.3mm in length (accounting for the bend), 7.11mm wide by 0.11mm thick at its midpoint, and weighs 1.45g.
Class: Thomas Class A, Type 1aii
Subsequent actions
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Chronology
Broad period: EARLY MEDIEVAL
Subperiod from: Middle
Period from: EARLY MEDIEVAL
Subperiod to: Middle
Period to: EARLY MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 750
Date to: Circa AD 900
Dimensions and weight
Quantity: 1
Length: 34.3 mm
Width: 7.11 mm
Thickness: 0.11 mm
Weight: 1.45 g
Discovery dates
Date(s) of discovery: Monday 19th March 2018
Personal details
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Materials and construction
Primary material: Copper alloy
Manufacture method: Cast
Decoration style: Zoomorphic
Completeness: Incomplete
Spatial metadata
Region: Eastern (European Region)County or Unitary authority: Suffolk (County)
District: Mid Suffolk (District)
To be known as: Hessett
Spatial coordinates
Grid reference source: Generated from computer mapping software
Unmasked grid reference accurate to a 10 metre square.
References cited
No references cited so far.
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Timeline of associated dates
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