STRAP FITTING

A cast copper alloy strap fitting of probable 17th century date (1550-1750). The fitting is broadly rectangular in plan and cross section. The upper element has a cast design comprising a series of rounded knops and a central lis shaped projection. The upper plate is also pierced by several varying shaped holes four are decorative and arranged in a square with a diameter of 4.1mm. Two are functional and filled with the remains of corroded iron pins. The lower part of the fitting has a rectangular pierced hole 12.8mm length 6.2mm width. The upper surface is decorated with a series of punched crescent shapes arranged in geometric patterns. The upper surface also looks to have been gilded. The reverse face is plain and undecorated - the remains of patinated diagonal file marks are present. The strap fitting is a mid-green colour with even well-formed surface patina. In size and shape it is similar to a number of furniture mounts from the later 17th century - the rectangular hole might be the remains of a key-hole. However, it is possible that the fitting may have fixed to a leather strap and acted as a form of closing. The style of decoration indicates a 17th century date.

The fitting measures: 55.6mm length, 35.9mm width, is 3.0mm thick and weighs 16.11 grams.