STUD

Cast copper alloy zoomorphic or possible anthropomorphic mount or stud of medieval date (1200 - 1450 AD). The stud is irregular in plan being broadly rectangular in shape with a small triangular projection from the lower edge. In profile the stud is D shaped and in cross section it is broadly convex. The front face of the mount is domed whilst the rear is concave. From the centre of the rear face a small oval cross sectioned stud extends. This is broken and distorted / bent as a result of movement in the ploughsoil. The front face of the mount is decorated with cast and incised decoration. The overall design is unclear it most resembles that of a bear which is realised in three dimensions. The eyes are cast irregular ovals in shape. The nose, snout and mouth are cast and detailed with further incised / chip carved decoration. Above the eyes is a broad cap which is decorated with incised cross hachured lines. This may represent a cap or possibly hair, although if this were the case it is poorly achieved. Another potential identification could be that it represents a crowned head although the detailing does not seem to support this. The mount is a mid green colour with an abraded patina. Small areas of light green active corrosion are present. These are more extensive on the reverse face, although some detail on the front face has been obscured. There is no evidence of a gilt or applied surface. A direct parallel has not been found, although the broad style would indicate a date of later medieval 13th - early 15th centuries. The style of the bear would suggest that it is from either a piece of harness decoration or more likely be from a personal item, such as a stud from a leather belt.

The mount measures 14.8mm length, 9.7mm width, is 3.5mm thick and the shank projects 2.5mm and is 1.6mm in diameter. It weighs 1.35 grams