KENT-1F3936: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Late 16th - 17th Century. Copper alloy, cast, damaged, ornate clothes fastener eyelet. Length 33.1mm, Width 18.4mm, Thickness 4.8mm, Weight 5.8g. Clothes fastener, minus the rectangular loop used to accept a hook from opposing hooked fastener, there are two remaining small, circular attachment loops but minus the third similar terminal loop. Slightly convex with a moulded scallop shape design and remains of some silvering and surface corrosion. Ref. Detector Finds by Gordon Bailey, Greenlight Publishing 1992, Page 29-33 No. 34 and History Beneath Our Feet by Brian Read, Anglia Publishing, Ipswich 1995, page 118-119, No.s 771 & 772.
Stable URI: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/179669

SUR-307B50: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
One of a pair of post medieval strap fittings which comprise a hook and a loop. This fitting is undecorated and of oval form with three projecting lobes each of which is pierced by a rivet hole. The rectangular loop is broken. The fitting has a white metal surface coating.
Stable URI: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/179779

NCL-319AB5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval tin alloy dress fastener. The shape resembles two inward facing 'S' letters which form an openwork heart. Each 'S' has a flattened discoidal knob on its outer side. There is a rectangular loop at one of the shorter ends and two circular attachment loops on the reverse of the object.
Stable URI: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/179803

CORN-4B60B1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress hook fastener with openwork decoration consisting of three fleurets surrounding central six-pointed star, encompassed by a twisted, rope-like border. Within this border are two knops, one at each end of the rectangular fastening loop above, where it meets the border. The aperture would have been used to attach the dress hook to a loop of fabric, looped around the bar, or the bar could have been directly sewn onto the material. Bailey (2004) illustrates similar examples on page 95, Figs.12.9 & 12.10, which are dated from the 16th to the 17th century.

BUC-BFC033: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Hook part of a two-part cast copper alloy dress fastener of Post-medieval, seventeenth century date (AD 1600 - AD 1700). The fastener is flat and largely sub-oval in plan with an integral hook at one end separated from the main plate by slightly widened collar. The hook is formed of a flat rectangular strip with a rounded end, bent forwards and back on itself 180 degrees. At the end opposite the hook, and in the centre of each side, there are integral perforated knops each with a slight knop on the outer edge, now worn. The front of the plate is plain but a small area of white metal coating suggests surface decoration has corroded off the rest of the plate. The rear face is flat and plain. Read (2008, p170, no.639) illustrates an identical fastener from South Somerset which he dates to the 17th century

WAW-0DEF73: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is the ‘eye’ and not the ‘hook’. The body of the dress fastening is an inverted sub-drop in plan with a rectangular loop along the upper edge. At the lower tip and either side there are three integral lugs with circular perforations. The upper surface is decorated with annulets and linear grooves forming a floral design. The upper surface has traces of a white metal alloy coating. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress hook has a matte grey patina. The dress hook measures 39.58mm long and 29.24mm wide across the body. It weighs 5.4g. The dress hook dates to the 17th to early 18th century.

SUR-3C2D34: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete hooked fastener with a D-shaped body and complex cast decoration with openwork trefoils and cusps.

LIN-DFAF44: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Complete hooked tag set comprising both male and female links. The objects were found together in plough soil. Both tags have a heart-shaped openwork frame with a crescentric shoulder at either side. The male tag has a small hook at one end and a T-shaped hook at the other. The female tag has a rectangular loop at one end and a T-shaped hook at the other. The short sides of the rectangular loop are faceted. Both objects are copper alloy and are decorated with silvering.

SUR-3A4811: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A hooked fastener of late medieval date. The fastener has a circular lobed body which contains an openwork cross.

YORYM-ED2AA0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Possible silver moulded dress fastener dating from the 18th century. The object comprises a leaf-shaped, moulded body with loops for attachment and a hook. There is one loop at the apex and one to either side of the hook. The body of the fastener is decorated with a line of pellets at the centre with radiating lines on either side.

HESH-56A9A3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy hooked tag of probable post medieval date (1500-1700). The plate of the hooked tag is broadly oval in plan with a series of projecting knops (some of which have been pierced) positioned evenly around the central plate. An integral rectangular projection extends from one end: this has been bent to form a loop / hook which folds back upon itself. The hook tag measures 44.7mm in length, 21.6mm in width, is a maximum of 5.4mm thick (body plate is 2.5mm thick) and weighs 8.14 grams. The plate of the hooked tag has a central possibly floral decoration formed from a series of curvi-linear ribs and pellets. This central element is contained within an oval panel with a border formed of pellets in a raised rope-like boarder. The reverse of the hooked tag is plain and flat. The hooked tag is of a mid brown-green colour and has an even but abraded patina that covers all surfaces of the artefact. The function of hooked tags is not certain; they may have been used as dress fasteners or they may have had a variety of other uses.

CORN-0835D7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete stamped copper alloy clothes fastener with three trefoil knops, one on each side of the fastener, and the third, now incomplete, at the opposite end to the edge of the attachment loop. The rest of the loop, or eyelet, with its rectangular aperture, is missing. The upper face is decorated with a central stem and flower head, with foliage either side, in the form of a serrated leaves, within a border of annulets. This is the eyelet half of a hook-and-eyelet dress fastener. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar example on page 100, Fig.2.42, which is dated to the 17th century.

CAM-3EFE60: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Silvered copper alloy post-medieval clothes fastener, dating from 1600-1700 AD. The object is roughly oval in shape with four equidistant loops and a hasp at one end. Decoration consists of a central four petaled flower surrounded by a swirling pattern. This clothing fastener would have formed one part of a pair, the other side having a clasp to fit round the bar of the hasp, thus fastening the clothing to which it was attached. Length: 37.80mm; width: 17.74mm; thickness; 1.80mm; weight: 5.75g.

CAM-3F0A94: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Silvered copper alloy post-medieval clothes fastener, dating from 1600-1700 AD. The object is roughly oval in shape with three loops; one on either side and one at the end and a broken off clasp at the opposite end. This clothing fastener would have formed one part of a pair, the other side having a hasp around which the clasp on this fastener would have fitted, thus fastening the clothing to which it was attached. Length: 34.57mm, width: 18.25mm, thickness: 1.73mm; weight: 5.02g

SUR-8E6410: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A plain hooked fastener with two round attachment holes. The plate is characteristically pear-shaped. The hook is missing.

WILT-DAA923: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete Early Post-Medieval copper alloy hooked tag with champlevé enamelling and two broken attachment-knops. It measures 29.43x(max)20.50x2.08mm and weighs 4.15g. The hooked tag has a foliate form, consisting of a central segmented stem with three oblique ovoids to either side and being widest just above the hook - which is 6.45mm wide. The enamel, most of which remains, is a pale green in colour. Two attachment knops (one complete and one broken) sit either side of the bottom pair of ovoids at the widest point. The internal diameter of the complete knop is 3.22mm. The third attachment knop, almost all of which is missing, is at the end opposite to the hook. 16th/ 17th century in date. Cf. WILT-BA0526 from Chiseldon for an identical example with eye instead of hook. This same example is mentioned in Read 2008 p.172 no.646.

KENT-2CA955: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
50BC-200AD. Iron Age, copper alloy, cast, broken and corroded 'toggle' or 'Button/loop' type dress fastener for fastening a cloak or similar clothing. Length 17.4mm, Width 11.6mm, Thickness 8.7mm, Weight 3.4g. Baluster type, minus both terminals and the circular or rectangular attachment loop. Broken and very corroded condition although some small fragments of a dark green patina. Ref. Buttons and Fasteners 500BC-AD1840, Gordon Bailey, Greenlight Publishing 2004.

SUR-E633F6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A hooked dress fastener; the hook is missing. The fastener, which is now bent, has a circular openwork plate at the centre of which is a heraldic rose. The loop is rectangular.

SWYOR-E62D86: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy clasp piece from a hook and eye fastener dating from the post medieval period. The plate is oval with an acorn shaped terminal knop. There are four broken sewing holes round the edge and a rectangular loop at the end. The front of the plate is decorated with white and light blue enamel and a central metal fleur dr lis or acorn. The fastener is similar to other hook and eye clasps from the Early post medieval period, but the use of blue and white enamel is unusual and probably suggests a late 16th or 17th century date. The fastener is 37.16mm long, 22.2mm wide and 1.3mm thick. It weighs 3.23g. Other objects on the database with similar decoration include WILT-DAA923, SUSS-D0ECE2, NMGW-403925, SWYOR-576585. See also Read 2008 page 178 plate 679 Class A type 9.

SUR-FF4E61: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A late or post medieval hooked dress fastener. The body of the fastener has openwork knot decoration in the form of a trefoil.

SUR-79FD82: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A silver gilt dress-hook comprising a rectangular body with seven projecting knops and a central rectangular recess probably intended to take a separate fitting (as on the similar Hadleigh, Suffolk dress-hook 2003 T209). The hook, which now projects sideways, appears to have been soldered onto the back. The attachment bar on the back is missing.

WILT-E7E0C7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete copper alloy and champlevé enamel Early Post-Medieval hooked tag (eye section) of Read's Class A, Type 9 with four attachment-knops and an ornamental knop. It is missing the end of the plate with (probably) an ornamental knop flanked by two attachments knops. It measures 28.24x25.59x1.56mm and weighs 4.40g. The plate depicts a human head, facing, surrounded by pellets and annulets in moulded relief. The surviving champlevé enamel is blue and white. 16th/ 17th century. Cf Read p.178 no.678.

CORN-694038: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete cast copper alloy hooked section from a hook-and-eyelet dress-fastener with circular openwork in a bifid terminal. One of these holes still has its iron rivet intact, so both of them would have been used to attach the hook to the textile. The collar below the terminal has two side-knops. There is an incised cross running between the rivet holes to the end of the remains of the hook, now missing, and crossing from knop to knop. Read (2001) illustrates a similar example on page 42, No.357 which is dated to the 17th century. Read (2008) illustrates a similar example on page 232, No.828, whichis dated to the 17th century also.

CORN-6F0401: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete cast copper alloy one-piece clothes hook, missing the hook, but with attachment loop at the other end so that it could be sewn onto clothes to be used as hook and eye clasp instead of a button. There are two apertures of openwork below the rectangular attachment loop. The moulded decoration consists of a spray of three small flowers whose stalks radiate from a pellet near the loop. Read (2008) illustrates a similar example on page 100, No.375 which is dated to the early Post-medieval period and is recorded as Class E, Type 3. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar example on page 96, Fig.12.21, which is dated to the 16th century.

CORN-6F1BD3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy belt hook, circular in plan, with three longitudinal moulded facets, and two moulded transverse collars at the junctures of the hook and body and of the body and the attachment hole, now missing, at the opposite end from the hook. Read (1988) illustrates similar examples on page 147, Nos.994 & 995, which are dated to the 17th century.

CORN-788067: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress hook fastener with moulded and openwork decoration in the form of a central fleuret surrounded by four kidney-shaped apertures with elongated angular knops. Two of these are now missing along with the hook that would have attached to the collar at that end. The opposite end has a trapezoidal aperture to act as loop so that it could have been sewn onto the garment. There is a pellet either side of the two longitudinal voided ridges at the base of this loop. Read (2008) illustrates a similar example on page 103, No.398, which is dated to the early Post-medieval period and classified as Class E, Type 3. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar example on page 96, Fig.12.20, which is dated to the 16th century.

SUR-21B051: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy trefoil-shaped hooked clothes fastener of composite construction; one of the three domes which comprises the obect is missing. The hollow back of the fastener is filled with lead or a lead alloy. The fastener appears to comprise six separate components. The two surviving domes appear to be the heads of separate rivets, one of which survives and which is bent at right-angles at the back of the fastener. Each dome is decorated with a ring of punched pits around a central pit. The central rivet appears to retain the Y-shaped plate component which divides the three domes. Each arm of this component is decorated with a central groove and diagonal grooves on each side in herring-bone form.

SUR-F16412: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A 17th century hooked clothes fastener comprising an oval plate with three projecting loops for attachment to cloth or leather. The face of the fastener is decorated with punched circles and lines suggestive of foliate shapes.

ESS-17ECB2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (17th century) cast copper alloy dress fastener. The plate is sub-oval with one straight edge. This edge would have had an integrally cast rectangular loop. The plate has three projecting knops, two of which are incomplete. The complete knop is circular, with an incomplete piercing for attachment; the remains of the other knops clearly had complete perforations. The upper surface of the plate is worn and corroded, with part of an incised floral design with surrounding circular and semi circular rings extant. The reverse is plain and undecorated. It is 29.53mm long, 24.22mm wide, 1.42mm thick and weighs 2.99 grams. The fastener has a green-brown patina with a large amount of light green corrosion. 17th century dress fasteners were used in pairs one with a hooked terminal, and the other (as with this example) an eye.

SUR-650545: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval hooked fastener. Only the heart-shaped plate survives which has cast floriate decoration.

ESS-4E64C3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval cast copper alloy dress fitting; this is the 'hook' element of a two piece hook and eye clasp. The main body is oval with a central cast design which is worn - it is possibly of a flower within a beaded border. There is a semi-circular knop half way along one of the long edges, and a worn break on the opposing side. There is a damaged and incomplete loop at one point of the oval, and two loops on the opposing end, flanking the rectangular hook element. The reverse is plain and undecorated. It is 38.78mm long, 21.92mm wide, 2.28mm thick and weighs 6.19 grams.

HAMP-CBC501: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A corroded and incomplete post-medieval cast copper-alloy dress fastener hook-piece (16-17th century AD). It has an oval plate with three loops for attachment: two at the base, protruding to each side, and one at the other end with lateral protrusions at its base giving the effect of a debased trefoil. There is a debased bifurcated knop midway along the long sides; both are now abraded. The hook has been lost just below the attachment loops after a diagonal break. The upper surface of the panel is decorated with moulded scrolling and foliate patterns within a sub-oval border. In turn this is all enclosed within two raised concentric ovals; the middle oval is decorated with fine transverse incisions to give a rope-work effect. This fastener is similar to one published by Read (2008, 175; ref. 663) which he classifies as his Early post-medieval Class A, Type 8. This artefact has corroded to a red-brown colour and is largely covered in areas of variable dull-green corrosion product, with some off-white patches. The terminal loop has been bent downwards as a result of old damage, as has one of the side knops.

BERK-E5BFE3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy early post-medieval hook clasp with three attachment knobs, lower one missing. Moulded relief with stylised flower design. Hook intact but bent over; Read (2008:165), Class A Type 1.

ESS-0F89E1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval cast silver mount with two integrally cast rivets on the reverse. The upper surface is symmetrical and formed of four main elements surrounding an openwork rectangle. There is an oval with scalloped edge and central depression. Extending at 45 degree angles from the two lower edges of the oval is a sub-oval, this time with a slightly domed surface and a straightened outer edge. There is a rectangular element (containing most of the rectangular opening) which connects the two sub-oval sections. There are some raised lines on the reverse. The two rivets are located on the reverse of the sub-oval elements. The mount is 20.30mm long, 11.50mm wide, 2.01mm thick increasing to 3.87mm to include the rivets. It weighs 1.61 grams. Date: Medieval, 1400-1500AD Discussion: Similar objects have been reported through the Treasure Act and dated to the 15th century: for example 2004 T451, 2007 T455, 2009 T189 Laura McLean

SWYOR-227D16: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
The hook section of a cast, copper alloy, dress fastener dating from 1600-1700. It has a flat, oval shaped body. At one end of the body is a short crossbar and a sub-rectangular knop pierced with a circular hole. At the other end are a pair of circular knops, one on each side of the body, also pierced with circular holes. Between these knops, the body extends into a flat, rectangular section, which curves back on itself to form a broad, blunt hook. The upper surface of the body carries a design of a flower with two leaves and three petals, and a row of small circles which follow the rim. There is a triangular depression in each of the leaves and in the central petal. The underside of the fastener is plain. It has a dark green patina and is 38.8mm long, 18.1mm wide and 8.8mm thick. It weighs 6.04gm. An almost identical fastener is illustrated in Bailey, Buttons and Fasteners 500BC - AD1840, page 100, number 2.42. See also Read page 171 plate 640 class A type 2 although this example is collared.

BERK-8A7797: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy 17th Century hooked clasp in one piece with engraved and punched decoration. The outer decoration shows a border of either pellets or annulets enclosing (possibly) a floral emblem in the centre(see lower image).

SUR-A268A4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A two-piece lead alloy and copper alloy dress hook. The hook is of trefoil form with three bosses and a central pellet, all within a pelleted border. The hook has an attachment loop on the back and a separate embedded wire hook.

SWYOR-5D0484: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy hook piece from a hook and eye type of dress fastener, dating from the Post Medieval period. The catch is triangular in plan, with rounded projections at each corner, each containing a sewing hole. The wide flat hook projects from the straight end and bends forwards, but the end is missing. There is a kidney or heart shaped decorative hole in the plate near the hook. The sides of the plate are bevelled. The reverse is slightl hollow. The metal is poor quality and may have had a white metal coating. This plate is thicker than other examples, and the triangular shape is also unusual. Plates of other designs but similar include SWYOR-E8B2B1 and SWYOR-D1DBC6. A 16th or 17th century date is suggested. A similar example is illustrated in Read 2008 page 174 plate 655 Class A type 6.

SUR-7F8157: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A dress fastener with a rectangular attachment loop and two notched, transverse ridges. The hook is missing.

SUSS-9BF710: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval copper alloy blunt hook. The greater part of the object is ovate in shape with the remnant of a circular attachment eye located centrally at the broader end. At the narrow end the main body is symmetrically flanked by two similar and complete attachment eyes. At this point there is a short slightly taperering rectangular projection towards what would have been a blunt hooked end, the hook part of which is now missing from an old break. The ovate front face of the object is decorated in champleve style with sub-lozenge shaped panels and scrolling foliate plant tendrils infilled with black, white and small dots of green enamel. The rear face of the object is flat and plain. There is a similar example illustrated in Read (2008, 169, number 632) which he dates to between the mid 16th-17th century.

SWYOR-192F64: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener of the post medieval period dating from1500-1650. It is one hafl of a hook and eye fastener; the catch half. The body is an ovoid shape, hollow on the underside. At one end it broadens out; this section has two circular holes for attachment to the dress and the remains of a rectangular fastening loop. At the opposite end there are the remains of a small sewing loop for attachment to the dress. The body carries an incised design of two flowers rising from the catch end; each flower has two leaves on the outer side of the stem. The fastener appears to have had a coating of white metal most of which has disappeared. It is 33.9mm long 19.8mm wide and 5.8mm thick. It weighs 8.33gm. A similar example is illustrated in Read 2008 page 169 plate 631 Class A type2.

ESS-689321: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval cast copper alloy dress fitting of Reads class A type 2 hooked-clasps and eyes. This example is an eye element, formed of an oval body with an openwork rectangular projection at one end to form the 'eye' and three circular knops with central rivet holes positioned at even intervals around the edge. The upper suface has a white metal coating, probably tin. It is 34.68mm long, 25.81mm wide, 1.91mm thick and weighs 4.58 grams.

BERK-CECDB6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Post Medieval hooked tag Class A blunt hook and eye clasp type of the "eye" variety. It has 3 sewing holes and a rectangular loop. It depicts on moulded relief a possible standing human facing-figure with a projecting knob to either side. 16th century.

HAMP-A109B3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A corroded post-medieval cast copper-alloy dress fastener hook-piece (16-17th century AD). It has an oval plate with three loops for attachment: two at the base, protruding to each side, and one at the other end with a projecting rounded collar. It has a moulded relief design: a lion passant guardant. Central on each long side is a bifurcated ornamental knop. The square loop has broken away, with only a vestige surviving beyond one of the side loops. This fastener is similar to one published by Read (2008, 176; ref. 670) which he classifies as his Early post-Medieval Class A, Type 8. This artefact has a red-brown metal largely covered in off-white and grey corrosion product.

SWYOR-B13E05: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy probable dress fastener in the form of a wire pin fashioned in a D shape with the terminal projecting at the bottom of the loop. The terminal is in the form of a thin acorn and is semicircular in section. The rest of the object is circular in section, made of thick wire. The opposite end tapers to a sharp point. This object was probably used as a dress fastener similar to a cloak fastener or hooked tag. The acorn motif suggests a Medieval date, but no parallel has been found. The D shape appears to be intentional rather than as a result of damage. The object has a patchy brown and green patina.

WAW-A25125: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A corroded and incomplete cast copper-alloy hooked mount of post-medieval date. The mount is formed of an openwork trefoil plate with a bifurcating collar below, the terminal of which would have curved back in a blunt hook, now missing. The upper lobe of the trefoil and the lower lobe both have an integral perforated flat lug to receive a rivet. In both holes the corroded iron remains of the rivets survive in situ. The copper alloy has a general grey colour which is heavily corroded. It measures 34.5mm long, 14.85mm wide and weighs 2.3g. A parallel can be found illustrated in Read (Read, B. 1995 History Beneath Our Feet Anglia Publishing, Ipswich), No. 769 which he dates to the 17th century AD.

DOR-38FC45: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener. The catch piece from a probable paired hook and eye clasp. The body is sub-rectangular in shape with elaborate moulded and openwork decoration. The decoration comprises symmetrically arranged traingular, oval and circular apertures with raised curlicues, ridges and rounded knops between (also symmetrical). The lines of symmetry run along the horizontal and vertical axis of the main body of the object. At one end is a pointed trefoil lug with an oval aperture, at the opposite end is the rectangular loop or eye. The four smallest circular apertures, which are set one at each side of the short ends of the rectangle, are probably the attachement or sewing holes for attaching the piece to a garment. The back is flat and undecorated. The decorative style suggests a 17th century date. Similar examples can be seen in Read B, 2008, Hooked -Clasps and Eyes, p. 181 - 182, nos. 692 and 694 Date: Post Medieval - 17th century Dimensions: 44.17 mm x 22.64 mm x 2.04 mm Weight: 5.43 g

WILT-E977D5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy tinned Early Post-Medieval (1600-1700) hooked tag of Read's Class A Type 8, oval with three attachment knops and two ornamental knops. Two of the attachment knops are missing, as is the 'business end' (hook or loop). It measures 26.49x22.29x1.72mm and weighs 3.3g. Just over half the plate survives and is filled with foliate and floriate decoration within a beaded border. Traces of tinning are apparent where the surface has not worn. The ornamental knops, at the middle of either outside edge, are bifurcate and appear to be foliate or floriated, but are now rather worn. The surviving attachment loop has a piercing 1.77mm in diameter. Cf. Read 2008, p.175 ref. 663, 664 and IOW-E81225 on this database. A useful description and illustrations of these hooked and eyed clasps is given by Read, see pages, 164-182.

SWYOR-E47D07: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Dress Fastener; one plate from a hook and eye fitting dating from the 16th or 17th century. The plate is oval and at one end a hook or catch has broken off. Part way along each side there is a small attachment loop projecting to the side. The end is circular with another projecting external loop. The front of the plate is decorated with an incised fleur de lys surrounded by annulets. It is very similar to SOM-103EF2, SOM-66AE51 and SOM-E0FF65. See also Read Class A type 2 plates 641-644 page 171.

SWYOR-E8B2B1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Probably a hasp section of a cast copper alloy, hasp and clasp type dress fastener, probably c. 1600-1750. It is the "eye" half of a hook and eye. The fastener is of openwork design, the main body being in the shape of a heart. Below the bottom of the heart is a short, rectangular crossbar above a lozenge shaped projection that is pierced with a circular hole probably for attaching to a garment. Above the heart is a lozenge shaped perforation, flanked by two small lobes with circular fastening holes and above this a rectangular loop to accept the clasp section. There is a trilobed projection into the centre of the heart at its apex. The fastener has a dark green patina and there is wear in the centre of the rectangular loop. It is 42.5mm long, 24mm wide and 2.1mm thick. It weighs 4.92gm. The object has many similarities with Dress Fasteners, but the uneven wear on the loop seems to contradict this theory. An almost identical object but with the loop broken off is SUSS-EC7CE1 which has been identified as a strap fitting. A parallel can be found in Read (1998, 122; ref. 7) that is there described as a 17th-century wall or furniture hook. It is also possible these objects are suspension mounts or pendants of some kind. Although the exact function is not certain, all interpretations suggest the same post medieval date.

SUR-FA8E93: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A 17th century hooked clothing fastening belonging to Read's Early Post Medieval Class A Type 1. The fastening is of oval form with five lobed extensions, each pierced. The fastening is decorated with punched circles and lines and is very abraded.

LIN-74F416: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete early post-medieval hooked tag. The tag is formed by copper alloy wire. At the top is a curved hook with a smaller loop to either side. At the other end is an oval shaped loop with a pin wrapped around the frame. The main body is formed by tightly wound wire. Cf. Brian Read, Class F, Type 2.

SWYOR-E889B4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy catch plate from a hook and eye dress fastener, dating from 1500-1700AD. The body is oval in shape. At one end are two small semi-circular knops flanking a larger knop which is pierced for attaching to the clothing. There are two further pierced knops for attachment at the opposite end of the body, flanking a rectangular fastening loop. Halfway along each side of the body are two small projections divided by a shallow notch. There is no other decoration visible. The fastener is 39.2mm long, 23.1mm wide and 1.9mm thick. It weighs 5.59gm. There are many similar examples on the database including SWYOR-E47D07, WAW-4CE1B6 and HAMP-CB77F4 and also Read 2008 page 171 plates 641-644 Class A type2.

HAMP-8DAAD1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A slightly corroded and damaged cast copper-alloy hook-piece from a post-medieval dress fastener (17th century AD). The plate is oval/ovoid originally with five angular attachment knops. These are located in pairs along the sides; that at the terminal has been lost. They are perforated and recessed probably for sewing the object to an item of dress (Geake 2001, 42). Two are just above an angular collar that separates the plate from the recurving hook; this latter has been broken. The upper surface of the plate is decorated with engraved and punched lines and curves, mainly forming a spray of flowers. At their base are three upturned punched crescents. Above the main spray are two annulets, above which, in the centre, are two pairs of crescents, the second closer together. The field is finely cross-hatched and the decoration is bordered with small annulet punches. The lower surface of the object is plain; both surfaces are covered in tinning over a corroded red-brown metal. The knops have been bent upwards which, along with the hook, gives the piece a certain concavity. Read (2008, 173) classifies this form with five attachment knops as his Early post-medieval Class A, Type 4, although only illustrates an eye-section (ref. 653); a hook-piece of similar decoration but only three knops (Read's Class A, Type 2) can be found illustrated in ibid. (171; ref. 641).

NARC-20B077: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy hooked tag, cast in one piece with moulded relief. Tinned. Rectangular eye is 15mm wide and 5mm long. The frame is 2mm thick. The plate is oval with moulding depicting two small flowers on stalks with leaves springing from a central barwithin a hatched border. Three knops to accommodate stitching to attach the object to the sleeve - one on the central base and one either side of the rectangular eye. The hook equivalent can be seen in Brian Read's "Hooked Clasps and Eyes" page 173, figure 651. Described by Read as Early Post-Medieval Class 2. 1500-1600 AD.

NARC-854B12: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy hooked fastener. Trapezoidal eye 13mm long and 5mm wide. Circular plate with a moulded floral device on the fornt. The circular plate is 14mm in diameter with a concave reverse. The hook is 3mm wide at the joint and tapers to a point, which is bent backwards. Similar in Read's "Hooked Clasps and Eyes", page 95. Class E, Type 3.

DUR-D1A6A6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A possible cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress accessory in the shape of a face. It is broken on all edges. The reverse is flat, with a raised line running down what would have been the centre of the complete object. This line could well have been a method of attachment. The front of the item is a face, with two large circular eyes shown as raised dots set in small hollows. The nose is a raised triangle and then it is broken, although there is the possibility of something depicting a mouth.

SWYOR-761AF3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy hook plate from a hook and eye dress fastener, dating from 1600-1800AD. The body is lozenge shaped. At one end are two small semi-circular knops flanking a larger knop which is pierced for attaching to the clothing. There are two further pierced knops for attachment at the opposite end of the body, flanking a rectangular hook which curves forwards. Halfway along each side of the body are two small projections divided by a shallow notch. The decoration on the front is worn but seems to be five floral elements, one central, with radial lines between them. There are many similar examples on the database including ESS-4E64C3 and SWYOR-E889B4. See also Read page 179 plates 681 and 682 Class A type 10 for similar examples.

DUR-5F9932: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy early Post Medieval dress hook/fitting, Read class A, Type 2 (p.168-171). It is sub-oval in plan with a rectangular loop at the top and three attachment knops, one at the bottom, and one on either side. Each of the knops has a circular perforation for attachment. Below the top rectangular loop is a double collar consisting on two horizontal lines. It has been engraved/punched on the front for decoration, the reverse is plain. The edge of the front has a border of raised dots, in the centre is a floral motif, coming from the top. It is very similar to no. 641 in Read (2008, p. 171).

ESS-734E36: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval cast copper alloy dress hook, of Read's Post Medieval type 1 class 2, c.f. no 646. It is sub-triangular in plan with the two longer edges being scalloped. There is a circular attachment loop at each corner and a forward facing hook extending from the shorter edge. There is a central rib running along the length of the main body, with three oblique oval recesses to either side. The two upper and lower ovals have traces of white enamel and the middle ovals have a trace of a dark blue-black enamel. There is a small crescent shaped recess at the end of the central rib, which also contains the blue-black enamel. The reverse of the fitting is plain and undecorated. The metal is red-brown in colour. It is 40.95mm long, 21.40mm wide, 3.36mm thick and weighs 5.16 grams.

NMS-4337A3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete hook plate, with most of the hook missing, from a post-medieval white-metal coated copper alloy blunt hooked clasp of Read 2008, Class A, Type 16, cf. no. 696 (NMS-84C863). Probably cast in the same mould as that published example and as another Norfolk find (NMS-539A87). The latter is poorly fettled but even on this present piece, however, two apertures nearest to the hook remain almost entirely blocked by metal. Extant length 31mm, width 21.7mm, thickness 1.2mm. 17th century.

LON-98DA46: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A well preserved post medieval cast copper alloy dress fastener. It is the eye catch piece for a corresponding missing hook fastener. The body of the catch piece is in the form of a right hand holding onto the loop which forms the 'eye'. The loop is circular with a circular hole, with four fingers over one side and a thumb wrapping around to the back of the fastener. On the hand's wrist is a ruff. Beyond the ruff are two circular loop protrusions, used to fix the fastener on to one side of the item of clothing. The back of the fastener is flat. The catch piece is very well preserved and has retained a brass-like colour with patches of dark brown-black discolouration. This object has been hand moulded (rather than mass manufactured) so is pre-1840's; this and its general style suggests a late 17th to 18th century date.

WAW-148767: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy early Post Medieval dress hook/fitting, Read class A, Type 2 (p.168-171). It is sub-oval in plan with a rectangular loop at the top and three attachment knops, one at the bottom, and one on either side. Each of the knops has a circular perforation for attachment. Below the top rectangular loop is a double collar consisting on two horizontal lines. It has been engraved/punched on the front for decoration, the reverse is plain. The edge of the front has a border of raised dots, in the centre is a floral motif, coming from the top. It is very similar to no. 642 in Read (2008, p. 171). The artefact is 37.05mm in length, 28.3 mm in width, 2.05mm thick and weighs 5.5 grams.

SWYOR-365BB1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy fastening loop from a clothes fastener, dating from the Post-Medieval period, AD1600-1700. It is formed of wire which has been twisted into three loops, two for sewing the fitting to textiles and a larger loop to take the fastening hook. On one side of the fitting are two small, transverse grooves where a decorative front plate would have been soldered onto the wire; this is now missing. The fastener has a medium-light green patina. It is 23.4mm long, 15mm wide and 2mm thick. It weighs 1.62gm. Although this object is without its front plate, complete attachment loops may be seen on the database at references: YORYM-592277, LVPL-EADE47 and SF6610. Interestingly, all the other listed examples of this design of fastener appear to be silver, unlike the current example, which is copper alloy.

SWYOR-9BAA47: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy catch plate from a hook and eye dress fastener, dating from 1500-1700AD. The body is oval in shape. At one end is a knop which is pierced for attaching to the clothing. There are two further pierced knops for attachment at the opposite end of the body, one on each side. The tractangular catch loop at the other end has broken off and is missing. The front of the plate is decorated with three stylised feathers or a fleur de lis and has a border of punched annulets. There are also traces of silvering. There are many similar examples on the database including SWYOR-E47D07 , WAW-4CE1B6 and HAMP-CB77F4. There is also an example in Read page 171 plate 641 Class A type 2.

SUSS-1C52B1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete and corroded early Post Medieval cast copper alloy eye from a dress clasp fastener. The object is sub-oval in shape with three trifoliate attachment knops, one located at the end of the oval and one at either side of the fastener; each knop is pierced by a circular hole. At the other end of the oval there is a rectangular loop, part of the outer frame of which is missing from an old break. The oval is decorated with a scrolled foliate design which is symmetrical along its long axis. Similar blunt hook and eye clasps are shown in Read; Hooked Clasps and Eyes (2008) p170-171, which he classifies as early Post Medieval Class A type 2.

KENT-F56E44: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy dress fastener.

SUR-3098F0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A gilded U-shaped fitting comprising a narrow strip which terminates in a circular plate on which is a facing lion's head in relief. On the back of the circular plate is a stud which is secured onto the opposite terminal of the strip. The fastener contains a large piece of coarse woven cloth.

GLO-E352C9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
~~Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-lozenge plate with scrollwork edges and a large rectangular loop at one end. At either side of the rectangular loop are two pierced lugs with a third at the rear for attachment. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design of an eight petalled flower. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

HAMP-540E35: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A corroded, but complete cast copper-alloy toggle of post-medieval date. The object has a circular cross-section but is pointed oval shape in plan. Cast integrally there is a flat-sectioned arm coming from its side which terminates in two small circular loops (set together like a figure of eight). The metal is red-brown in colour with overlying light/mid green corrosion product. This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period, AD 100 - 200 as seen in SWYOR-E137B1 and DENO-D53724. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffle coat, as in SF-332DF0 and SWYOR-9FE646. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion by Jackson (2010, 6), and compare nos 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts.

NCL-C10876: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy clothes hook from the post-Medieval period. The object consists of a central decorated face that is circular in plan. The face has scalloped edges and a concave indentation with a raised circular protrusion in its centre. A fastener bar that is roughly rectangular in plan is attached to one edge of the face and a hook protrudes from the opposite edge.

NCL-BDEA11: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy fastener from the Post Medieval period. The central tag of the fastener is roughly circular in plan and has two perforations on each half of the circle, for a total of four. The fastener’s hook and loop are broken but the shaft of the hook and the base of the central loop’s arms are present.

NCL-C0ADC6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy dress fastener (hook piece) of the early post-Medieval period. The fastener is incomplete at the head, though the hook remains largely intact. The head would have been openwork circles, but there is a break almost immediately at the top of the hook shaft.

SUR-66A417: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of a middle Saxon hooked fastener with a pair of attachment holes. The plate alone survives and has a central voided cross with a pellet in each angle, which contains a band of rectangular shapes. Similar decoration fills the field. The fastener has a white metal coating.

CORN-02EF63: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete stamped copper alloy clothes fastener with three trefoil knops, one on each side of the fastener, and the third at the opposite end to the edge of the attachment loop. The rest of the loop, or eyelet, with its rectangular aperture, is missing. The upper face is decorated with a central stem and flower head, with foliage either side, in the form of a large leaf. This is the eyelet half of a hook-and-eyelet dress fastener. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar example on page 100, Fig.2.42, which is dated to the 17th century.

CORN-0516A6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Stamped copper alloy clothes fastener with three trefoil knops, one on each side of the fastener, and the third at the opposite end to the attachment loop, with its rectangular aperture for the eyelet. The upper face is decorated with a central stem and flower head, with foliage either side, in the form of a large leaf. This is the eyelet half of a hook-and-eyelet dress fastener. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar example on page 100, Fig.2.42, which is dated to the 17th century.

HAMP-8CC7D6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy hook-piece from a post-medieval dress fastener (17th century AD). The majority of the artefact survives, including the main, shallowly convex, oval plate. At one narrow end a wide hook emerges (W.: 5.9mm), curving upwards slightly before a break. At the other end there is a small projecting circular loop. There are two further circular loops on each side of the oval, just above the hook. The small holes may have been used for sewing the object to an item of dress (Geake 2001, 42). On the upper surface of the plate there are raised curvilinear ridges which create numerous broadly lozengiform sunken cells in a geometric pattern. Within the larger cells are four pellets arranged in a diamond. The fields are filled with white and blue enamel, much of which survives. The lower surface of the object is plain, with the metal corroded to a red-brown colour with a covering of light green corrosion product. Many similar fasteners with ovoid plates and three loops have been recorded on this database, although those with enamelled decoration (e.g. SOMDOR-D79D21) are in a minority. The presence of enamelling on such dress accessories perhaps suggests a date later in the 17th century. Other contemporary enamelled fasteners, including buttons, seem to display a limited palette of enamels - mainly whites, blues and greens. This artefact has been published in Read (2008, 169; ref. 632).

DENO-3B22C3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval cast copper alloy dress hook, 16-17th century, similar in style to Read (2008; pg 172, 646) early post medieval blunt-hooked and eye clasp Class A, Type 2. Rectangular loop is broken off. Sub-triangular in shape with three circular attachment loops, one at each corner. Running longitudinally down the centre of the obverse are 8 short transverse raised ridges with foliate decoration around. Traces of tinning/silvering on the obverse & possibly the reverse. Weight 4.7mm, length 33.9mm and width 21.6mm-7.3mm. Similar to WILT-BA0526.

CORN-EDB4F4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete sheet copper alloy clasp fastener, pressed with a pattern of foliage. The eye for the hook is broken and open and the side attachments are also incomplete, but the two loops, one on each side of the eye, are still intact. These loops would have allowed the fastener to be stitched onto the item of clothing. Bailey (2004) illustrates a very similar example with the same pattern of foliage on page 100, Fig.2.43, which is dated to the 17th century.

NCL-4F0C11: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy hook fastener. The object is ovoid with a rectangular hole. There are two circular perforations at the outside base of this rectangular projection. On the opposite side of the oval is another eye. The decoration consists of alternate moulded and segmented lines with a central design of spirals to either side of an indeterminate description. There are double spiral-decorated knops in the centre of the two long sides.

WAW-CB55B1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is the ‘eye’ and not the ‘hook’. The body of the dress fastening is a sub-oval in plan with a straight terminal where originally a rectangular loop would have protruded, but is now missing. At the lower tip and either side there are three integral lugs with circular perforations, the lower one is incomplete. The outer surface is decorated with stamped annulets. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress hook has a matte grey coloured patina. The dress hook measures 27.27mm long and 28.73mm wide across the body. It weighs 4.3g. The dress hook dates to the 17th to early 18th century.

CAM-A1A4A8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Catch-piece from a 17th-century dress fastener, made from copper alloy with a white-metal coating. It consists of a large central oval plate with a rectangular loop at one end and a small pierced D-shaped lobe, with terminal projection, at the other. Similar pierced D-shaped lobes are found on either side, set slightly closer to the rectangular loop than to the other end. One is complete and one is now broken and incomplete (fresh break). The dress fastener is decorated with a pattern of incised lines which radiate out from the centre of the rectangular loop, forming perhaps a plant-like pattern with two straight lines in the centre and a pair of outcurving lines to either side. At the ends of these lines are short curved lines made by the use of a circular stamp held at an angle. In the spaces between are tiny ring-and-dot stamps and areas of stipple made from very tiny punchmarks. There is also a border of tiny ring-and-dot stamps. The reverse is undecorated except for the white-metal coating. It measures 38 x 26 mm and weighs 5.79g.

DUR-B7CD64: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress hook dating from the 16-17th centuries. It is an openwork design, Read Class E, Type 5 (2008, 109-110). The hook has broken just below the main body. The design is that of a Hungerford knot, a central larger hole with two smaller ones above. The attachment loop is rectangular and has a moulded circular flower on each vertical bar just above the main body. There is also a moulded design below the main body where the hook begins, this could be a face as has been seen on other examples but it is not clear from the image.

SUR-947DE6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An openwork dress fastener with its hook missing. The fastener is decorated with a lys in a circular frame.

SUR-944F25: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
the 'eye' component of a pair of hooked clothes fasteners belonging to Read's Early Post-medieval Class A, Type 9. The fastener has four attachment loops and, centrally, a four-petalled flower in a scrolling frame, and possible lettering in the terminal knop.

SUR-946418: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of an openwork dress fastener belonging to Read's Early post-medieval Class E, though with no close parallel. The fastener comprises three openwork circles arranged in a trefoil.

SUR-984863: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A large, early post medieval, complete, scallop form, dress fastener with a concave back. There are three rounded attachment loops and one rectangular loop.

SUR-A700C2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete early post medieval plain hooked fastener, broken across two loops. The fastener belongs to Read's Early Post Medieval Class A.

SUR-7D3D10: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A hooked fastener of Read's early post-medieval Class E Type 2. The fastener is shield-shaped and openwork with a hook and rectangular loop.

SUR-7DB552: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A late post-medieval or modern, wire, blunt-hooked clothes fastener with a black coating. Read's Class A, Type 1.

SUR-11C176: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A jointed pair of early post-medieval clothes fasteners in the form of scallop shells. The clasps belong to Read's Class A, Type 7. Each has two attachments spikes on the back.

NARC-F30258: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy hollow rectangular object, gilt decorated on both sides. Presumably cast in two halves and fixed together, the item is now seperating along the horizontal axis. The upper surface has a corrugated appearance, with three oval depressions. The reverse is flat. Gilt scroll work decorates each of the depressions and along the sides. the reverse has what appears to have been a floral gilt image. One narrow egde has two 'tubes' protruding from the corners. The opposite end has two holes which appear to run parrallel to the protruding hollows, suggesting that another component ran through the object. Similar items in Read's Hooked Clasps and Eyes suggest a probable clothing fastener function, although no exact parallels can be found.

WAW-2EEB36: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is the ‘eye’ and not the ‘hook’. The body of the dress fastening is an inverted sub-triangle in plan with a rectangular loop along the upper edge. At the lower tip and either side there are three integral lugs with circular perforations. The upper surface is decorated with a central flower with openwork surrounding the field in quarters. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress hook has a matte green/grey coloured patina. The dress hook measures 38.24mm long and 32.03mm wide across the body. It weighs 6.9g. The dress fastener dates to the 17th to early 18th century.

SUR-B0A0B1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An oval dress fastener cast with a chequer pattern. The fastener has three loops (one of which is partly broken away) and a three-sided bar to attach the hook on the opposing piece. The fastener belongs to Read's Early Post medieval Class A, Type 1 (eg nos.633-4).

ESS-AD1CC3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (1500-1700) cast copper alloy Type E Class 3 hooked-clasp, c.f. Read p140 no 402. The main body is sub-circular with a central lozenge panel with four openwork circles projecting out of the upper two edges. An integrally cast rectangular attachment loop is located at the apex of the fitting with a projecting hook extending from the opposite side. The hook is rectangular in plan, and bends back on itself towards the reverse of the fitting. It is 33.08mm long, 12.30mm wide across the attachment hook, 16.50mm wide across the main body and 2.99mm wide across the hook. It is 2.30mm thick and weighs 2.62grams. The fitting has lost a large amount of its original surface and some of the openwork is obscured by corrosion products.

ESS-EC2DC2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (16th century) cast copper alloy dress hook. The attachment loop is rectangular, with a flat undecorated strip below. There is then an openwork triangle comprised of three openwork circles with two openwork circles below, with a projecting arm extending from the apex of the triangle. The arm is rectangular in plan with a 'D' shaped cross section; there is a worn break across the end, where the arm would have bent into a hook. The reverse is plain and undecorated. It is 34.41mm long, 14.88mm wide and 1.27mm thick on the main body with the incomplete projecting arm being 2.749mm wide, 1.77mm thick. It weighs 1.74 grams. The metal is red-brown in colour, with patches of green corrosion.

SWYOR-6B0EA2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
One pieces from a copper alloy hook and eye dress fastener, dating from the 17th century. The mount is an oval plate with three projecting knops that each have a hole through them. A wide flat hook with the bent part broken off projects from one end. The plate is decorated with punched circles around the edges and a fleur-de-lys in the centre. It has a length of 40.56mm, width 28.05mm, thickness 1.82mm, weight 4.65g. Similar examples are SUSS-EE3BB1 and SWYOR-F186F2 located on the PAS database. See also Bailey, Buttons and Fasteners 500BC -1840AD, p. 100, Fig. 2.42. Also Read 2008 page 168 onwards Class A type2.

SUR-0D73F3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A hooked fastener belonging to Read's Class E, Type 3, single sharp hooked clasp.

SWYOR-F186F2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress fastener; half of a hook and eye fastener dating from c. 1600-1700. It is oval in shape; one end of the oval finishes in a pierced lobe with a small knop, the other end in a rectangular fastening loop. There are two side lobes, each of which also carries a small knop and a sewing hole. The upper side is decorated with a pattern of a plant with three flowers, one at the end of the stem and one on either side. The underside is plain. The fastener has a light green patina and the metal is in good condition. It is 36.6mm long, 29mm wide, and 2.2mm thick. It weighs 3.88gm. A very similar example can be found in Bailey, Buttons and Fasteners 500BC -1840AD, p. 100, Fig. 2.42. See also Read 2008 page 171 plates 641-644.

LON-295ED2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy wound wire hooked fastener (16th century). This hooked tag is constructed from lengths of wire. Two lengths of thicker grade wire have been shaped to from the double hooks at each end. A thinner grade wire has been wrapped around the body of the hooks to hold their shape. This thinner wire has been hammered flat once in place. This thinner wire has also been used to form a loop at each end. A bead is attached to one of the loops, it is difficult to identify the material of the bead. Similar wound wire hooks and other accessories are illustrated and discussed in Egan & Forsyth (1997:227). These hooks have been dated to the 16th century. Dimensions: length: 35.37mm; width: 8.79mm; thickness: 5.12mm; weight: 1.18g. Reference: Egan, G. and Forsyth, H. 1997. Wound Wire and Silver Gilt. In Gaimster, D. & Stamper, P. 1997. The Age of Transition. The Archaeology of English Culture 1400-1600. Society Medieval Archaeology Monograph 15 (Oxbow Monograph Series 98) Oxbow, Oxford.

SUR-6A41A8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A hooked fastener comprising three conjoined circular elements (one is now missing) with hollow backs filled with lead. A separate hook is held in place by a rivet.

SUR-E8C9B3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of a middle Saxon hooked dress fastener. The plate is divided into four areas by a saltire formed of small punched triangles arranged back to back. Each area contains a punched ring and dot (one area contains two).

SUR-0C63B3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An oval clothes fastener with three pierced lugs and a rectangular loop. The fastener is decorated with punched circles and lines.

LON-06FA21: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete Early Post Medieval copper alloy dress hook with a white metal coating (1500-1600 AD). The artefact consists of the eye-section of a hook and eye clothes fastening. It has been cast in one piece with moulded decoration on the outer face. The decoration takes the form of a central four-petalled flower on a field of tendrils and foliate with a small three-petalled flower in each quarter. The plate is round in plan with two attachment holes pierced from the outside face and a projecting debased trefoil knop with a central attachment hole. At the opposite edge of the dress hook is the rectangular eyelet section of the clasp. This is slightly recessed from the raised moulded section. The entire fastening has been coated with a white metal. It is very similar to a base metal example in Read (2008, 180), ref. 686, which is recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme databse as CORN-914120 Dimensions: length: 37.56mm; width: 21.23mm; thickness: 2.24mm; weight: 5.37g. Reference: Read, B. 2008. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. A Classification and Catalogue of Sharp- or Blunt-Hooked Clasps and Miscellaneous Hooks, Eyes, Loops, Rings or Toggles. Portcullis Publishing, Langport, Somerset.

CAM-6D5406: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper-alloy object initially identified as a lock plate, but with the help of Christoph Richter this has been more securely identified as a corset fastener of post-medieval or modern date. The object is small (12.7mm x 18.5mm), flat and heart-shaped. There is a small aperture formed of two conjoined punched circles, one larger than the other; above this keyhole-shaped aperture, in the upper lobes of the heart shape, are two copper-alloy rivets. The object is covered with a brown and dark green patina, with some patches of lighter corrosion product, Weight 1g and thickness 0.92mm. Chris Richter provided the following visual reference to an image of such objects 'in action', at: http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/loeffelschliessen.jpg. A row of fasteners serves to close the corset at the front, placed along the busk (the rigid support at the front) so that it could be opened without the corset being fully unlaced. Opening busks appear to have come into use in the mid 19th century and continue to be used to the present day.

KENT-DECA91: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
16th Century. Copper alloy, cast, broken hooked clasp or fastener. Truncated Length 24.2mm, Width 21.2mm, Thickness 1.7mm, Weight 2.4g. Class A, type 8. One piece clasp/eye or fastener with moulded relief, oval panel bearing possible foliate or floriate within a beaded border. One of three remaining rounded attachment loops intact. Broken upper two thirds only with dark green patina but some surface corrosion possible surface silvering remaining on the back. Ref. Hooked-Clasps & Eyes, Brian Read, Portculis Publishing 2008, page 175-176 No. 663, 664 & 665.

CPAT-956CC6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
This is a copper alloy Tudor 'Double Rose' dress fastener from the 16th century AD. There is a convex moulded relief with a circular double rose, open attachment or stitching loop to one end and a now missing hook to the other. The surface has a dark green/brown patina

WAW-5CB401: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is the ‘eye’ and not the ‘hook’. The body of the dress fastening is an inverted sub-triangle in plan with a rectangular loop along the upper edge. At the lower tip and either side there are three integral lugs with circular perforations. The upper surface is decorated with a central flower with leaves over a cross. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress hook has a matte brown coloured patina. The dress hook measures 32.83mm long and 25.34mm wide across the body. It weighs 6.5g. The dress hook dates to the 17th to early 18th century.

LVPL-F4C1D2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
One half of cast copper alloy clothing fastener dating to the 16th-17th century. Oval body, slightly convex, four peripheral pierced lugs, a larger round lug at one end and a broken loop at the opposite end. In worn condition but appears to have floriate deciration.

KENT-169911: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Tudor dress fastener. Openwork decoration. Rectangular strap loop. Hook

An openwork fastener, now in two pieces, with a rectangular attachment loop. The hook is missing. The central circular frame contains a cinquefoil which is itself framed by seven arcs.

SUR-0885E0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fastener with a rectangular loop and a central circular element with a lobed frame and seven hollows. At the centre is a concavity containing paste, possibly for a glass inset. The hook is missing.

NCL-5CB6A6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy fastener, probably post-medieval in date. The hook piece of a fastener, possibly for clothing or a belt. It has been cast in one and appears complete but has some iron corrosion on the rounded end. The hook has a sub-square section and leads into a circular part of the object. This is hemi-spherical and hollow although it has been filled by ferrous corrosion and dirt. The upper face of this part is decorated by incised lines and two circular perforations. The back piece was cast integrally and has been bent back on itself across the back of the hemisphere.

WILT-3F9146: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-Medieval sword belt fitting of copper alloy, probably designed to act as a toggle. One end is damaged and the surface is corroded although some patina still remains. It measures 28x18mm and weighs 2.77g. At one end is a 'T' shape which curves backwards. Below this the object abruptly widens to 17mm for a length of 10mm. Within this section is a heart shaped perforation. As the heart shape narrows the sides of the object follow, curving inwards before curving outwards to a width of 18mm as the heart point is reached. The ends of these inverted 'C's protrude past the object edge slightly. The wider section continues for 4mm. Below this is the remains of a backward curving feature, possibly a hook, 5mm wide. The fitting is decorated with two transverse grooves in which the patina still remains. One between the T-shape feature and heart perforation, the other on the short wide section between the perforation and 'hook'. Nick Griffiths comments that this would probably used as a toggel. The T-shaped could have been put through a narrow slotted plate and turned 90 degrees to create a linkage that was flexile but could not come undone during use. It would also have easily been released when not in use. Date: 16th/17th century. See the similar objects WILT-3FF714, WILT-401CO5, WILT-403464, found in the same field.

WILT-3FF714: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-Medieval sword belt fitting of copper alloy, probably designed to act as a toggle. Both ends are damaged and the surface is corroded although some patina still remains. It measures 27x17mm and weighs 3.47g. At one end is a 'T' shape which curves backwards. Below this the object abruptly widens to 16mm for a length of 10mm. Within this section is a heart shaped perforation. As the heart shape narrows the sides of the object follow, curving inwards before curving outwards to a width of 17mm as the heart point is reached. The ends of these inverted 'C's protrude past the object edge slightly. The wider section continues for 4mm. Below this is the remains of a backward curving feature, possibly a hook, 7mm wide. The fitting is decorated with two transverse grooves. One between the T-shape feature and heart perforation, the other on the short wide section between the perforation and 'hook'. Nick Griffiths comments that this would probably used as a toggel. The T-shaped could have been put through a narrow slotted plate and turned 90 degrees to create a linkage that was flexile but could not come undone during use. It would also have easily been released when not in use. Date: 16th/17th century. See WILT-3F9146, WILT-401CO5, WILT-403464, found in the same field.

WILT-401C05: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-Medieval sword belt fitting of copper alloy, probably designed to act as a toggle. One end is damaged and the surface is corroded. It measures 26x19mm and weighs 2.65g. At one end is a 'T' shape which curves backwards. The horizontal bar is damaged. Below this the object abruptly widens to 15mm for a length of 10mm. Within this section is a heart shaped perforation. As the heart shape narrows the sides of the object follow, curving inwards before curving outwards to a width of 19mm as the heart point is reached. The ends of these inverted 'C's protrude past the object edge slightly. This wider section continues for 4mm. Below this is the remains of a backward curving feature, possibly a hook. The fitting is decorated with two transverse grooves in which the patina still remains. One between the T-shape feature and heart perforation, the other on the short wide section between the perforation and 'hook'. Nick Griffiths comments that this would probably used as a toggel. The T-shaped could have been put through a narrow slotted plate and turned 90 degrees to create a linkage that was flexile but could not come undone during use. It would also have easily been released when not in use. Date: 16th/17th century. See WILT-3F9146, WILT-3FF714, WILT-403464, found in the same field.

WILT-403464: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-Medieval sword belt fitting of copper alloy, probably designed to act as a toggle. Both ends are damaged and the surface is corroded although some patina still remains. It measures 24x18mm and weighs 2.13g. At one end would have been a 'T' shape which curved backwards. Now this is broken and a small stump remains Below this the object abruptly widens to 14mm for a length of 10mm. Within this section is a heart shaped perforation. As the heart shape narrows the sides of the object follow, curving inwards before curving outwards to a width of 17mm as the heart point is reached. The ends of these inverted 'C's protrude past the object edge slightly. This wider section continues for 4mm. Below this is the remains of a backward curving feature, possibly a hook, 5mm wide. The fitting is decorated with two transverse grooves, now filled with patina. One between the T-shape feature and heart perforation, the other on the short wide section between the perforation and 'hook'. Nick Griffiths comments that this would probably used as a toggel. The T-shaped could have been put through a narrow slotted plate and turned 90 degrees to create a linkage that was flexile but could not come undone during use. It would also have easily been released when not in use. Date: 16th/17th century. See WILT-3F9146, WILT-3FF714, WILT-401CO5 found in the same field.

LVPL-B8C2B3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Tudor period copper alloy dress fastener comprising triangular back plate cut from a sheet with rounded corners and scalloped edges. Traces of gilding on edge of front of back plate. Separate wire hook attached through the back of the plate, as is a bar attachment. A fragment of a separate decorative plate is attached to the front and is in poor condition.

LEIC-74A7A0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy hooked tag, 36mm long and 17mm wide. The object is in good condition with a dark green patina and weighs 2.09 grams. The object consists of a protruding rectangular 'loop' which sits above a circular plate. This plate has a border of protruding circular knops which contain a raised cross with a central circular knop. There are four drilled circular holes in each quarter. At the base there is a circular sectioned hook which is C. 15mm long.

KENT-9578D3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy dress fastener. Part of a two-piece fastener, possibly from the Tudor period. The complete fastener is 70.26mm long, 20.63mm wide, and weighs 4.75 grams. The other half of the fastener is record KENT-958B28

KENT-958B28: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy dress fastener. Part of a two-piece fastener, possibly from the Tudor period. The complete fastener is 70.26mm long, 20.63mm wide, and weighs 4.75 grams. The other half of the fastener is record KENT-9578D3

KENT-993164: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval hooked fastener. Copper alloy.

KENT-993912: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval hooked fastener. Copper alloy. Hook at both terminals. Rust-red patina.

KENT-993E33: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval hooked fastener. Copper alloy. Rust-red patina.

LEIC-5A6866: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy clothes fastener, 30mm long, 21mm wide and 2mm thick. the object is in fair condition with a green patina and weighs 5.33grams. The object has no visible decoration and is roughly oval(or acorn shaped) in form with a rectangular shaped loop at one of its narrower ends. Below this are traces of protruding shafts which may have been fixing loops.

LVPL-7B5346: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Sub-oval shaped with three protruding eyelets and a rectangular loop. Decorated on front with a palmate pattern surrounded by a border of ring and dots. Traces of white metal coating on front and back.

SUR-4763B7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An oval plate with four rivet holes, one in each projecting lobe, and a rectangular attachment loop to take a similar hooked fitting. The cast decoration on the plate comprises a central human face with surrounding swags and drapes.

SUR-69A587: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fastener of rounded, sub-triangular form, probably floral in shape, and with traces of gilding. The hooked terminal is missing. On the reverse is a three-sided attachment bar.

SF-8D9352: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy decorative strap-fitting of ovate form with square looped end and three small loops or lugs, and with punched foliate ornament on the upper surface of the plate. The rectangular looped end is 13mm wide accommodating a rectangular hole, slightly irregular but at maximum measurement 13mm by 4mm in dimension. The overall length is 39mm, and the maximum width 31mm across the centre of the fitting including the two side lugs. There are three small lugs, one at the tip and one at each side, with holes of 2.5mm gauge. The object is plain on the back and is 1.5mm thick. The ornament is created by a series of punched circles around the outside,framing a symmetrical bush-scroll with leaves shown by punched circles, and with a central stem surmounted by further punched circles forming a fruit cluster, surrounded by punched areas suggesting hatching impressed by an object with a diagonally-gridded surface. This fitting is probably of the 16th century.

CORN-914120: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy blunt-hooked dress fastener eyelet with rectangular eyelet and three attachment holes. The eyelet is flat in section and lozenge-shaped in plan with a protruding pointed attachment loop around one of the attachment holes. The eyelet is decorated on its upper face with a floral pattern consisting of a central four-petalled flower surrounded by foliage and another three-petalled flower in each of the four quarters which are divided by four scroll-like tendrils emanating from the central flower. The decoration looks 17th-century in date, when compared to decorated mounts of the period. 17th century Read (1995) illustrates two examples of the same sort of eyelet with No.771 & No.772 which he dates to the 16th to 17th centuries.

CORN-726E54: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy blunt-hooked dress fastener eyelet with rectangular eyelet and three attachment holes. The eyelet is flat in section and circular in plan with three protruding attachment loops, the one opposing the rectangular eyelet having a knop on the end of the attachment hole. The eyelet is decorated on its upper face with a floral pattern of openwork consisting of a central six-petalled flower surrounded by four sets of two scroll-like tendrils emanating from the central flower. The decoration looks 17th-century in date, when compared to decorated mounts of the period. 17th century Read (1995) illustrates two examples of the same sort of eyelet with No.771 & No.772 on p.119, which he dates to the 16th to 17th centuries. Bailey (1992) in Detector Finds illustrates a similar eyelet with different decoration on p.32, No.28 which he dates to the 16th to 17th centuries.

SUR-994C93: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
The female component of a pair of strap clasps. The clasp has five holes for rivets, each in a projecting lobe. The decoration comprises foliate shapes made using punched circles.

DENO-63F1F4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy post-medieval dress fastener (AD c.1600-c.1700). Tinned or silvered surfaces. two loops broken. Length 37.26mm, width 18.36mm, thickness 1.9mm, weight 5.01g See Read 2008, Early Post Medieval Class A type 8 on page 175-7.

LON-0E0241: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy dress fitting, dating to the post medieval period, part of either a dress hook component or hair piece. The fitting consists of a long shaft with pointed termini, and wire wound around the centre. Either side of this central wire band are two protruding hooks that have been straightened at a later date.

LVPL-FB6461: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
17th century cast copper alloy clothing fastener. Sub-oval convex hollow-backed body with rectangular loop and three pierced protruding lugs.

CORN-B78036: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Sterling silver trefoil-looped dress fastener with a setting and knop soldered to the central loop. The style of the piece looks Georgian but the recorder can find no comparanda. The hallmark is made up of the lion passant for sterling silver, the anchor for Birmingham, and the third stamp, the date letter, is illegible, but looks like a capped letter within a shield shape stamp. Birmingham started marking silver in this way in 1773, and the date letter follows immediately after the anchor between 1773 and 1783. The maker’s mark looks like ‘C Z’?

LEIC-5AB935: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy and silver dress fastener, 38mm long and 29mm wide. The object is in fair condition with a greenish patina. It consists of an oval plate which has one end cropped to accomodate a rectangular suspension loop, 13mm wide, which is seperated from the main body by a raised collar. At the opposite end and at the centre of each of its curved sides, there is an oval protrusion which has a circular hole drilled into it. The surface has traces of silvering on both sides and the reverse is completly flat. B Read, 2008, pg.170, No. 635.

LANCUM-A51C62: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast cu-alloy dress fastener (hook piece). It is tear-shaped, with the pattern of a moulded flower on the observe while it is plain the reverse. It has three moulded loops (one at the top, one on either side) through which rivets where driven to hold the mount in place. The hook terminal(?) is missing.

LEIC-329EF6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Romano british copper alloy dress fastener, 24mm long, 17mm wide and 8mm thick. It is ovoid in shape and has a circular protrusion on top with a groove around the outside. Part of the edge is damaged.

LEIC-33CCB7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Late Iron Age or early Roman copper alloy dress fastener of quatrefoil shape, 21mm long, 19mm wide and 5mm thick. In two opposite lobes single circles have been impressed.

LEIC-37A9F4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Late Saxon or late Medieval? copper alloy hooked fastener, 16mm long, 19mm wide and 1mm thick. The object is fragmentary but what does survive is semi-circular and has the remains of two round holes in its upper surface with a protruding hook opposite.

WILT-20E648: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete early post medieval copper alloy tinned hooked fastener in the shape and style of a shell, concave, with one tiny (broken) fixing point extending from one end (5mm diameter, internal 2mm). To the opposite side extend two arms, again a tiny fixing hole (see above) on either side. Although this suggests its self as a hooked fastener, it is unclear where the fastening would go, as the two arms show no sign of holding a bar between them. Presumably this would have been the 'female' element. 16th/ 17th century. Measures 33.5(just incomplete length)x19mm and weighs 5.56g.

LEIC-5A2746: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 37mm long and 15mm wide. The object is in good condition with a green patina and weighs 4.72 grams. The object consists of an oval domed central section, 4mm deep, which has a rivet? loop at its widest end. The other end has an elongated neck which has two more loops at its base. This neck is 9mm long and 6mm wide and it bends outwards slightly where it has snapped off.

LEIC-C3F6D8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Tudor copper alloy clothes fastener, 38 mm long and 20 mm wide.

LEIC-03AFB3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Possibly Saxon copper alloy dress fastening, 24mm long and 18mm wide. The object is sub triangular and is decorated with three circular raised bosses which have linear incised decoration.

LVPL-A5F9A3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
16th century, cast copper alloy, hooked dress fastener. Rose design with rectangular loop , hook partly missing.

KENT-B08710: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval hooked fastener. Cast in copper alloy, this fastener now has a pale green patina. The retangular fastener has a row of three openwork circles surrounded by moulded decoration positioned just above the in tact hook. The rectangular loop has a rope work moulding along the attachment edge. The fastener is 29.27mm wide, 13.46mm thick and it weighs 1.6 grams.

SWYOR-D1DBC6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval copper alloy clothing fastener. The fastener has the common rectangular loop for attachment to a strap and an ornate flat plate. The openwork decoration consists of a small heart shape with two 'S' shapes, back to back underneath, then another heart shape. The back of the fastener is completely flat but has a tiny mark about two thirds of the way down where there may have been some kind of hook or rivet (possibly made from iron?). The fastener measures 45mm in length, 26.9mm in width and 2.4mm in thickness, and weighs 9.01g. Similar to plates 687-689 page 180 of Read 2008 Class A type11

KENT-6DD212: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Late 16th - 17th Century. Copper alloy, cast, lozenge shaped ornate clothes loop fastener with attractive floral decoration, rectangular loop terminal and three small semi-circular attachment holes.

SUR-E99ED7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A probable clothes fastener consisting of a double-ended bullet-like component attached centrally along its body to a tapering rod of rectangular section which terminates in a pair of circular eyelets.

LVPL-0DDCD6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy dress hook. Pierced floral design topped with rounded loop. Tapering shank, hook missing.

NMS-F17271: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval to post-medieval copper alloy double-hooked dress clasp. A square sheet plate is riveted to the centre of a strip that ends in sharp hooks. The undecorated plate is badly distorted. Read 2008, early post-medieval Class S, Type 1. Very much longer (62.5mm) than normal. Width of strip 4mm. Plate 28 x 28mm. c.1450 - c.1600.

SWYOR-23DCE2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener of probable seventeenth century date. It is the hook piece of a hook and eye clasp. The flat oval hook-piece measures 36.5mm x 27.9mm x 2.2mm, weighing 6.59g.. At one end is a wide hook which curves up and forwards. Part way along each side there is a small attachment loop projecting to the side. The end is circular with another projecting external loop. The front of the plate is decorated with an incised fleur de lys surrounded by annulets. The hook-piece would have had a corresponding catch-piece. It is very similar to SOM-103EF2, SOM-66AE51 and SOM-E0FF65. See also Read 2008 page 171 plate 640 Class A type 2.

DUR-C5FEF8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper dress fastener dating to the post medieval period, c. AD 1600 to 1700. The object is sub-lozenge shaped in plan with pointed loops at three of the corners. Two of the loops are broken. There is a projection from the fourth corner which curves slightly forward. The front of the object is decorated with an unclear motif of several annulets which vary in size. The surface of the object is quite degraded with some of the patina missing. Similar objects have been recorded on the PAS database such as SOM-50BD53.

NMS-C76094: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval copper alloy shield-shaped plate with rocker-arm decoration on one face and a central hole filled with decayed iron, probably part of a late medieval double-hooked dress fastener of Read 2008 early post-medieval Class S. Being shield-shaped, rather than lozengiform, square or rectangular, the object is exceptional. However, its decoration, rocker-arm engraving, around the perimeter and in oblique lines in the centre, is quite normal. The rivet that attaches the plate to the double hook is normally copper alloy, but in this case where the plate is larger and heavier than normal iron was chosen. For two other shield-shaped plates see NMS-1101B7, from West Acre, Norfolk (HER 56903). Height 37.5mm. Width 26.5mm. Thickness 0.8mm. Weight 6.15g. c.1450 - c.1539.

WAW-593485: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval to Post Medieval (14th to 16th century) dress fastener: A copper alloy dress fastener which is made from wire which has four twists in the centre, and each terminal tapers to sharp points which are curved to form an agraffe. It measures 63.27mm long, 8.96mm wide, 3.51mm thick, and weighs 2.5g. This appears to be a double strap attachment or garter hook, of a type fashionable in the late 15th Century. They are sometimes decorated with applied plaques or decorative elements, see a four-pronged one with a Tudor rose, in TAR 2005, nos. 695, also a three-pronged one, no. 696, both dated by their decoration or related pictorial evidence to the late 15th-early 16th Centuries. That dating seems right for this object, though it may be earlier, given the use of twisted silver wire in 14th Century toilet accessories. An similar dress fastener was found to be Treasure in 2008 from London (2008T34) and dated to the 14th to 16th century.

LEIC-884592: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy incomplete openwork hooked dress fastener. It cosists of two adjoining circular loops with evidence of a break to one side of the centre, where further loops presumably attached. At the other side a short strip is all that remains of the hoop. An example in Read (2008, p.111, no.446) suggests that originally there would have had a further two adjoining circular loops, creating an openwork design, followed by a sub-rectangular attachment loop at the other end. Read (ibid. p.87) suggests an early Post Medieval date for hooked clasps of this style. Length: 16.6mm, thickness: 1.3mm, weight; 0.99g

PAS-980526: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete composite silver-gilt dress-hook (hook missing) with a lozenge-shaped back, to which 'rope-twist' filigree decoration had been soldered (filigree wire bordered by 3 circlets and granulated pellets in the corners, and 3 circlets on the four hollow, hemispherical bosses. There is a central perforation for a decorative knop, probably a flower head, which is now missing. There is a punch mark on the reverse, which has been made in a repoussé manner. Gilding does not extend along the full length to the back. Maximum width 26.6 mm; weight 3.5g. Metal Content Analysis to ascertain the elemental composition of the artefact was carried out by Mary Davies using a Bruker TRACER III-V Light Element Analyzer hand-held XRF, with a rhodium target, a voltage of 40kV and a beam current of 9.6μA. The readings were taken from a relatively dirt-free area of each blade, for 100 live seconds. TA 10.9 silver gilt dress hook 40kv 9.6kv yellow Concentration (AG11) CuKa1 0.858111 AgKa1 99.02331 The composition is therefore about 99% silver, 1% copper. Conclusions Decorative dress-hooks have been found more often than the smaller hook loops (for example Parham, Suffolk (Treasure Annual Report 2002, no. 138; Thornton and Mitchell 2003, fig. 1a, b), Petersfield, Hants (ibid, fig. 3), West Malling, Kent (Treasure Annual Report 1998-9, no. 216) and related to examples with cusped trefoil back-plates from Caldecote, Warwickshire and Staxton, N. Yorkshire (Gaimster, Hayward, Mitchell and Parker 2002, figs 4, 5). For a dress hook from the Hitcham area decorated with a simpler version of a similar layout, see Treasure Annual Report 2004, no. 278. Documentary evidence indicates that these items were popular in the sixteenth century (the latest reference in an inventory being dated 1598; Gaimster et al 2002, 184; Thornton and Mitchell 2003).

NMS-033BA5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval to post-medieval copper alloy double-hooked dress clasp. A shield-shaped sheet plate, with engraved rocker-arm cross on saltire within a border, is riveted to the centre of a wrought strip that tapers from the mid point and ends in sharp hooks. The plate is badly distorted. See related clasps with lozengiform or rectangular plates in Read 2008, early post-medieval Class S, Type 1. Length of strip 53mm, width of strip in centre 7.5mm. Plate length 33mm. Width 27mm. c.1450 - c.1550.

DEV-429777: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval copper-alloy eyed clothing fastening , for use in conjunction with an opposing hook. The object has been made from a length of wire which has been bent into a 'U' shape, the two pinched and squared ends then turned outwards so that both touch the outside of the 'U', creating two loops. Some gilding remains on the lower part of the fastening.

HAMP-BE48A4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A slightly corroded and damaged post-medieval cast copper-alloy dress fastener hook-piece (16-17th century AD). It has an oval plate with three loops for attachment: two at the base, protruding to each side, and one at the other end with lateral protrusions at its base giving the effect of a debased trefoil. There is a debased bifurcated knop midway along the long sides. The hook has been lost just below the attachment loops after a diagonal break. The upper surface of the panel is decorated with moulded scrolling and foliate patterns within a sub-oval border. In turn this is all enclosed within two raised concentric ovals; the middle oval is decorated with fine transverse incisions to give a rope-work effect. This fastener is similar to one published by Read (2008, 175; ref. 663) which he classifies as his Early post-Medieval Class A, Type 8. This artefact has corroded to a red-brown colour and is largely covered in areas of variable mid-green corrosion product, with some off-white patches. It has been bent in profile to one side at the hook end, and one of the side loops at this end has received a crack.

HAMP-BE7C55: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A slightly corroded and damaged cast copper-alloy hook-piece from a post-medieval dress fastener (17th century AD). The plate is oval/ovoid with three debased trefoil attachment knops/loops. These are located along the sides and at one end. They are perforated and recessed probably for sewing the object to an item of dress (Geake 2001, 42). The upper surface of the plate is decorated with engraved and punched lines and curves, mainly forming a spray of flowers. Some of the lines are intermittent and seem to be formed by rouletting. At the base are three upturned punched crescents. Above the main spray, formed of two slightly diverging lines, are two pairs of crescents to each side, and a further pair above in a trefoil arrangement. Adjacent to the main spray, formed of two curved lines, are side sprays which terminate in a pair of inturned crescents, one above the other. Within each spray is a small row of transverse ridges formed by a punch. The field is bordered with small annulet punches. The hook as been broken and lost at the point it curved round. The lower surface of the object is plain. The metal has some mid-green and off-white corrosion product over a red-brown metal. Read (2008, 171; refs. 639, 640) classifies this form with three attachment loops as his Early post-medieval Class A, Type 2.

SWYOR-048243: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy hook piece from a Post Medieval hook and eye dress fastener, dating from AD 1500-1650. The body is sub-lozenge shaped. At one end is a knop which is pierced for attaching to the clothing. There are two further projecting pierced knops for attachment, one in the centre of each side (one now missing). Projecting from the other end of the plate is a wide and blunt hook which is broken where it would have curved over. The front of the plate is silvered but does not appear o have a design. Compare SUSS-A7FB53 which cites Read 2008, Hooked-Clasps & Eyes, p171, Nos. 641-644, for almost identical examples, all dated to the early Post Medieval period. See also a similar fastener illustrated in Bailey, 2004, Buttons and Fasteners 500BC-AD1840, Greenlight Publishing, page 100, number 2.44, and compare SWYOR-3576A4 and SWYOR-9BAA47.

SUR-082DE1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete oval copper alloy clothes fastener with a rectangular eye and with a silvery sheen. The fastener has cast decoration in its centre with a floral design. Read's Early post Medieval Class A, Type 8 (single blunt-hooked and eye clasps).

LEIC-C74BF2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-medieval cast copper-alloy dress fastener (c. 1600-c. 1700 AD). This is one of two similar objects that would have been used together to join straps or clothing. The other object would have terminated with a hook. The clasp is mainly oval in plan and has a perforated knop, centrally placed, at the attachment end, with smaller knops either side. There are two smaller solid knops mid-way along the length of the fitting, one at each side, with two pierced attachment holes adjacent to each of these knops. At the opposite end there are the attachments for a central sub-rectangular loop which is missing. The upper surface is slightly convex and has a raised cast decoration including lines and curves. The lower plain surface is convex and corroded. The object is 33mm long, 25mm wide, 2mm thick and weighs 4.32g. Reads Class A, Type 8. B Read, 2008, Pg. 176, No. 666.

SWYOR-EA47B4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy hook piece from a Post Medieval hook and eye dress fastener, dating from AD 1500-1650. The body is sub-lozenge shaped. At one end is a knop which is pierced for attaching to the clothing, but broken across the sewing hole. There are two further projecting pierced knops for attachment, one in the centre of each side (one now missing). Projecting from the other end of the plate is a wide and blunt hook which curves forwards. The front of the plate is decorated with three stylised feathers or a fleur de lis and has a border of punched annulets. The base of the design is at the hook end. There are also traces of silvering. Compare SUSS-A7FB53 which cites Read 2008, Hooked-Clasps & Eyes, p171, Nos. 641-644, for almost identical examples, all dated to the early Post Medieval period. See also a similar fastener illustrated in Bailey, 2004, Buttons and Fasteners 500BC-AD1840, Greenlight Publishing, page 100, number 2.44, and compare SWYOR-3576A4 and SWYOR-9BAA47.

NMS-684305: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post-medieval copper alloy dress-fastener eye plate, Read Class A, type 2, flat oval with three knopped attachment loops and broken rectangular loop for blunt hook on corresponding plate. The decoration comprises a probable mask between ribbon-like decoration reserved on an enamelled field. The enamel is mostly white with three oval areas of black. Surviving length 37mm. Width 23mm. See Read (2008), p.175-176, nos 663, 668 and NMS-DA4D77 16th-17th century.

NARC-BD2EE7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An Early Post-Medieval dress fastener, or clasp. 1600 -1700. Described by Brian Read, in Hooked Clasps and Eyes, as: A wire bent into a slightly open bight, the two halves forming part of the shank, and each end wound tightly spiralling inwards; a second wire bent into a tight bight and hooked at the bottom is set inside the open bight; two wires, each tightly sparalled inwards at both ends, lie one each side of the shank and the whole is seized together by a thinner gauge wire. After securing, the spiralling ends have been flattened. (Page 147, Figs. 576 - 578). An attaching link is still hooked aorund the end loop.

CORN-9A8DF7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress fastener or eye-section, lozenge-shaped in plan, with a rectangular eye that would have held the hook on the other half of a pair of fasteners. On either side of the eye are two circular side loops, which would have allowed the fastener to be sewn on to clothing, along with the third circular loop at the other end of the fastener. Between the eye and the attachment loop terminal, the face of the fastener is decorated with a moulded rosette of four circular petals, alternating with four lozenge-shaped leaves or sepals, within a frame of two transverse lines at either end and two curved scrolls that meet in the middle on either side. The centre of the flower has a recessed pellet on an incised cross, and the sepals are also defined by incised crosses. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar dress fastener on page 100, Fig.2.43, which is dated from the 17th century. Read (2008) illustrates a similar dress fastener on page 179, No.683, which he classes as Post-medieval Class A, Type 10.

WAW-082FE6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy Post Medieval probable dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is the 'eye' and not the 'hook'. The body of the dress fastening is a sub-oval in plan with a straight terminal where a rectangular loop protrudes, forming the eye. At the lower tip and either side there are three integral lugs with circular perforations. The outer surface is decorated with a moulded flower and scrolls. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress hook has a matte grey coloured patina with traces of a possibly white metal coating. The dress hook measures 34.14mm long and 21.35mm wide across the body. It weighs 5.4g. The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 8 which probably dates to the early Post Medieval period, perhaps the 16th to 17th centuries.

SOM-67D422: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Loop/eye part of a two part cast copper alloy dress fastener of Post-Medieval, 17th century date (AD 1600-1700). The fastener is flat and largely pointed oval in plan with an integral rectangular loop at one end of the main plate and a grooved ornamental knop at the other, reminiscent of a scallop shell. Flanking the beginnings of the ornamental knop is an integral perforated knop to each side. Two further attachment knops protrude from the widest part of the plate, giving a total of four such loops. The front of the plate is decorated with a moulded human facing bust with clusters of pellets to each side. Above these pellets a loop emerges from the side of the bust. At the base of the bust is a V-shaped collar with drop shapes to each side, and below which further pellets. The moulded decoration is bounded by a raised border that follows the sides of the plate and includes the loop. The internal edge of the loop's border is split, with the ends curled back, almost abutting. The rear face is flat and plain.The object is 39.9mm long, 26.9mm wide and 2.2mm thick; weighing 6.31 grams. Read (2008, p. 178, no. 678) illustrates an identical fastener which he dates to the 17th century and classifies as Early post-Medieval Class A, Type 9. Other examples, including LVPL-60F412 on this database, suggest that this type was often enamelled.

YORYM-D618E6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy dress fitting of post-medieval date. The fitting is comprised of an ovate body with a bi-lobed openwork terminal projecting from one end. The opposite terminal has been lost to worn breaks. The body is decorated with a worn and indistinct pattern which may be foliate in nature. From the reverse a narrow tubular projection is present which was presumably used for attachment. The metal has a mid blackish-brown patina and is worn. The fitting is 21.4mm long, 9.4mm wide, 3.1mm thick and weighs 1.4g.

LON-B99465: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to the 16th century. This hooked tag is constructed from five pieces of wire shaped and fastened together using a thinner gauge creating a wound wire accessory of a type known to date to the 16th century. One piece of the thicker gauge wire has been shape to form a hook with the two ends curled into spirals. The remaining four pieces of thicker wire also have their ends curled into spirals repeating the pattern from the hooked section. All of these pieces are fastened together using two lengths of the thinner gauge wire. There is a third length of the thinner gauge wire which has been wrapped around the body of the hooked section. The overall shape of this hooked tag is slightly distorted and two of the spiral terminals are missing. Egan & Forsyth (1997:227 fig. 15.10) illustrate similar wire-work accessories for which they suggest a date of 16th century. Dimensions: length: 39.64mm; width: 42.46mm; thickness: 7.77mm; weight: 8.90g. Reference: Egan, G. and Forsyth, H. 1997. Wound Wire and Silver Gilt. In Gaimster, D. & Stamper, P. 1997. The Age of Transition. The Archaeology of English Culture 1400-1600. Society Medieval Archaeology Monograph 15 (Oxbow Monograph Series 98) Oxbow, Oxford.

WMID-59B4DD: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress hook of the early Post Medieval period, circa AD 1600 - AD 1700. The hook is sub oval in shape with a rectangular suspension loop, with a rectangular perforation at one end. The main body of the dress hook has three protruding triangular knops from the outer edge, one on either side just below the rectangular section, and one at the rounded point of the oval. These triangular knops have a circular perforation, one is incomplete. The front of the object is decorated with a foliate or floral design with a central trefoil engraving, it has an outer border of incised circles or rings. The reverse is plain and undecorated. The object measures 36.9 mm in length and is 25.2 mm wide. It has a thickness of 2.1 mm and weighs 6.2 g. The object is a mid brown in colour and has an even patina, there is evidence of possible tinning on the front. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil may have resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail. A comparative example has been published as number 641 or 642 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 2 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating. Similar examples have been recorded on the database, including WMID-6CE62B. Reference: Read, B. (2008) 'Hooks, Clasps and Eyes' , Portcullis Publishing.

WILT-5D555B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy early post medieval hooked tag Class A, Type 1 dating to c AD 1540-1620. The hooked tag is incomplete as it is missing the hook and the attachment loops are incomplete. The hooked tag is cast in one-piece and has moulded relief and openwork. The hooked section has a six-petalled flower bordered by palmettes and originally probably had two rounded and one debased trefoil attachment knops (all that remains is the remnants of one loop and the lower curve of the other two). The openwork is unfettled. The object is corroded and has a brownish mid green patina with some reddish brown marks around the edge. Cf Read, B, 2008, Hooked-Clasps & Eyes, Portcullis Publishing, Langport p616 no 615.

YORYM-873D1A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cooper alloy dress hook of post-medieval date. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 8 being oval in plan with three attachment knops, two ornamental knops and a rectangular attachment loop. The upper surface is decorated with possible foliate and floriate designs within a double beaded border and bifurcated ornamental knops project from either side. The attachment knops are rounded and the end one has a rounded collar. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a mid greenish-brown patina and is worn. The dress hook is 39.8mm long, 22.4mm wide, 1.9mm thick and weighs 5.7g. A similar hooked tag is illustrated in Read, p.175, no.663.

NMS-DA4D77: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post-medieval copper alloy dress-fastener hook plate, Read Class A, type 2, flat oval with three broken attachment loops and broken blunt hook. The decoration comprises a probable mask between ribbon-like decoration reserved on an enamelled field. The area of the mask is green, between two flanking black ovals on a white field, within a green border with the remains of eight white dots. Extant length 42mm. Extant width 24mm. See Read (2008), p.175-6, nos.663-4 and an enamelled eye plate from Witton (NMS-684305). Late 16th-17th century.

BERK-F0973E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy dress fastener, also called a hooked tag or clothes clasp, dating to the early post-medieval period. The Hooked tag is of Read's (2008) Class E Type 3, having a circular central body in openwork, decorated with pellets around the outside and an equal-armed cross across the centre. The attachment 'loop' is rectangular and the complete hook curls towards the rear of the tag, which is flat and undecorated. These hooked tags have been found in contexts dating from c. AD 1500-1550. See Read (2008:99) no. 370 for an exact parallel.

YORYM-1A5E48: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cooper alloy dress hook eye of post-medieval date. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 7 being figurative with three attachment knops. The main plate is relief moulded in the shape of the Prince of Wales Feathers with two surviving attachment loops projecting from the base of the feathers. A third loop which should be at the apex of the longest feather has been lost to a worn break. A rectangular attachment loop also projects from the base of the feathers. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a dark greenish-brown patina and is worn. The dress hook is 32.2mm long, 20.3mm wide, 2.9mm thick and weighs 4g. A similar example is illustrated in Read, p.175, no.662.

WMID-954EC1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook, of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1600 to AD 1700). This is the hook section of such fasteners, with its rectangular blunt hook truncated around halfway through the recurve. The central area of the plate has a raised foliate design with a central quartered berry and four leaves in cross formation with four small circular berries in the angles. This design is within a broadly lozengiform line border formed of four lines with scrolled ends; at the middle corners these form a pair of projecting rounded knops at either side. There are two pierced lobes flanking the start of the hook, one either side of a billeted transverse band. At the opposite end to the hook is a third pierced lobe with projecting scrolled terminals to either side, giving a fleur-de-lis terminal. This pierced lobe has an internal diameter of 3.3 mm. The reverse is flat and undecorated. It measures 41.4 mm in length, 23.2 mm wide and 1.9 mm thick. It weighs 5.6 g. The dress hook is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the plough soil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface detail. A parallel can be found illustrated in Read (2008, 179; ref. 681), with other examples of eye- and hook-pieces shown on the same page, classified as his Early post-medieval Class A, Type 10. Several similar dress hooks have been recorded on the PAS database, including: BERK-5B342C; SOM-41EAF8; SOM-7BA565; KENT-816EE5 and SF-B80564.

A copper alloy hooked fastener of oval form with three projecting pierced attachment loops. The face is decorated with punched lines and circles which form a foliate pattern. Cf Read no 639-644.

SWYOR-27DCBD: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post-Medieval, copper alloy dress fastener; a single blunt-hooked and eye clasp, of Read class A, type 2 (three attachment knops, some with a collar, projecting and/or ridged), dating from AD 1500 - 1700. It has a flat, oval body with three attachment knops, one to either side and one at the apex (almost entirely missing), all pierced with circular holes. A broad flat hook projects from the base and is broken at the bend. It has no collar. The upper surface of the body has incised and stamped decoration comprising a border of punched annulets inside of which is a foliate design in the form of a fleur springing from the hook. Closely hatched lines add texture to the design. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The hook piece is 34.3mm long, 28.5mm wide and 2.2mm thick. 5.28g. Compare Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, numbers 639-644 on pages 170 - 171. Other examples can be found on the database; for example BERK-566135, HAMP-0045A, and SUR-027C73.

WILT-A40279: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An almost complete copper alloy Post-Medieval dress fastener (c. 1500 - 1800). Read's Class E, Type 8 (Figurative), Cf. Read 2008, p.114. The dress fastener consists of a circular plate, which is divided into two fields with raised vertical ridge, the decoration on either side is difficult to decipher, possibly forming two animals facing each other. On one side of the plate, there is a rectangular attachment loop, approximately 10.1 mm wide. From the lower portion of the plate, there is a central D-shaped hook extending from the plate, which is missing the hooked terminal. The reverse of the fastener is undecorated, with a slightly concave plate. The dress fastener measures 31.8 mm in length, 16.9 mm wide, 2.2 mm thick and weighs 2.44 g.

NMS-09E149: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Eye-plate from a post-medieval copper alloy single blunt-hooked clasp of Read 2008, Class A, Type 2, with one of the three attachment loops missing. The foliar ornament in counter-relief on the ovoid plate is the same as that on a male (hook) plate from Staffordshire (ibid. no. 651). A very close female parallel has been recorded from Dorset (HAMP-746D80) and an unprovenanced example differs in minor detail (NARC-20B077). Length 33.3mm. Estimated width c.25mm. 17th century.

WAW-21EDB6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (mid 16th to 17th centuries) dress fastening: A copper alloy dress fastening which is the 'eye' and not the 'hook'. The body of the dress fastening is sub-oval in plan with moulded design consisting of double stranded borders with a foliate design within. One terminal has an integral perforated knop and the opposite terminal has a rectangular loop which is incomplete. Either side of this loop there is an integral perforated knop, one of which is incomplete. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress fastening is abraded and is a matte dark grey/green colour. The dress fitting measures 33.63mm long and 20.81mm wide across the lower lugs. It weighs 3.27g. The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (2008:164-5) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 8 which probably dates to the early Medieval period, perhaps the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Read, B., 2008. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Somerset: Portcullis Publishing

NLM-241932: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy clasp fragment. Flat oval plate with the stub from one side of a rectangular loop at its broader end, one round side loop and the stub where an identical loop on the opposite side is lost, and the stub of a third similar loop at its narrower end. This appears to be a plain version of, or perhaps a back plate from, a clasp of Read Class A Type 8. The identification of a rectangular loop at the end suggests this to be the eye from a hook and eye pair. Suggested date: Post-Medieval, 1600-1700. Length: 27mm, Width: 21.9mm, Thickness: 1.3mm, Weight: 3.02gms.

WILT-C8A6DF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Post-Medieval dress fastener (c. 1500 - 1800). The dress fastener consists of a circular flat plate with two circular attachment lobes. The plate is worn and there is no visible decoration remaining on either side of the plate. The hook which would have formerly extended from the lower portion of the plate has broken off and only a narrow rectangular protrustion remains. There is an oval perforation on the plate, however this appears to be the result of potential damage, rather than an intentional design aspect. The dress fastener measures 15.0 mm in length, 14.0 mm wide, 1.1 mm thick and weighs 1.06 g.

KENT-C8B11A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval silver-gilt dress hook. This example is a fragment of a Read, Class A, Type 2 example; consisting of the lower dome of a trefoil shaped fastening. The dress hook is broken at the upper portion of the dome, where it was formerly connected to a further two domes. The circumference of the plate is decorated with a scalloped edge. The dome is decorated with twisted wire filigree forming three circles, the interior of the lower two circles contain a further three circles, with an annulet where they meet at the centre of the circle. At the centre of the design, there appears to be a missing annulet. The upper circle has no interior decorated further supporting that this is a fragment of a larger object. At the lower portion of the dome, there is a smaller circle which contains an annulet; this borders the cylindrical hook which projects from the reverse of the plate. The reverse of the hook is undecorated; however there is a 'V'-shaped stamp on the upper portion of the hook. The hook projects downwards from the down and then curves back towards the reverse of the dome, finishing with a pointed terminal. The hook has been flattened slightly and the hook twists to the left. The object measures 15.2 mm in length, 10.3 mm wide, 6.0 mm thick (at dome apex) and weighs 1.99 g.

KENT-C6A7C3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy hooked tag of Post-Medieval date. It has a rectangular plate with integral rectangular sewing lug at the upper edge, and integral hook at the base. The plate hasthree notches along each edge and a large central rectangular boss. This has a central rectangular projection with an unclear foliate incised decoration. At the base of the plate the integral hook has a ribbed collor. The hooked tag is 27.4mm long, 13.2mm wide, 2.9mm thick and weigh 3.02 grams. This is a hooked tag of Post-Medieval date that finds close parallels in a number of examples published by Read (2008: nos. 294-297). These are placed by him in his Early Post-Medieval Class E Type 1 hooked tag group and dated to the Post-Medieval period, c.16th-17th centuries AD.

KENT-C7BEBA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy hooked tag of Post-Medieval date. It has asub rectangular plate with integral rectangular sewing lug at the upper edge, and integral hook at the base. The plate has a moulded relife desing with a pellet in the center and four radiating T-shaped arms forming a cross with two pellets in each corner; all within a linear border. At the base of the plate the integral hook has a ribbed collor. The hooked tag is 30.3mm long, 12.9mm wide, 2.1mm thick and weighs 1.71 grams. This is a hooked tag of Post-Medieval date that finds a close by Read (2008) in particualr ref 357. These are placed by him in his Early Post-Medieval Class E Type 3 hooked tag group and dated to the Post-Medieval period, c.16th-17th centuries AD.

GLO-EED3DA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'Female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-oval plate and is moulded in the shape of an acorn. There is a large rectangular loop on the forward edge (now truncated). Immediately behind the loop are two pierced lugs with a third at the rear for attachment. This artefact dates to the 16th century

BERK-6CBBF9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener, possibly a collar link dating to the medieval period. The link has an oval openwork frame with moulded decoration of uncertain form. There is one link loop remaining - it may have had up to four loops, and be similar to a collar link illustrated in Read (2008:197 fig. 35) and submitted as Treasure (2005 T442 - WILT-CE86A5 on this database), dated to the late 14th or 15th century AD. The reverse of the link if flat and undecorated, and supports the theory that this is a dress fastener.

NMS-AE025C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post-medieval copper alloy hooked dress fastener, a cast flat lozengiform plate with one end missing. The front is engraved with an elaborate quatrefoil in the centre of a lattice with rocker-arm around the edges. On the reverse there are clear indications in solder of the position of the lost hook and less obvious signs of the ends of a loop. Read 2008, early post-medieval Class D, Type 3. Cf. with a plain example from North Yorkshire, ibid. no. 217. Estimated length of plate 22mm. Width 19mm. Thickness 1.1mm. 16th century. Field FLO12

KENT-AFC4EF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post-Medieval (c. AD 1500-1600) silver gilt dress hook of Read's Class D, Type 1 (rectangular) (Read 2008, 59). The body and hook survive, but the attachment loop is missing. The body is rectangular with seven projecting knops on the corners, sides and attachment end, and a fleur-like moulding at the junction with the hook. At the centre of the body, three worn annulets surmounted by a recessed heart. A very similar example can be seen on the database: KENT-442B16. The item is 19mm long, 9mm wide and weighs 1.46 grams.

SUR-D56224: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper-alloy Post Medieval oval hooked clothes fastener. The fastener has three projecting attachment loops and is decorated with stamped arcs and circles in the shape of a floral spray. Read's Class Type 2.

SUR-D85677: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An element from a two-part copper-alloy Post Medieval dress fastener pair. The fastener has a single iron rivet at the attachment end, a bullet-shaped terminal, and a central hole.

LEIC-964C87: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 43mm long, 30mm wide and 2mm thck with a weight of 5.41grams. The object is one half of a 'hook and eye' fastener and represents the hook portion. It consists of a sub triangular flat plate which has three protruding triangles containing circular sewing holes, arranged at cardinal points. The plate is decorated with a fluer like inscribed motif which has traces of silvering/tinning present. The object is completed by a rectangular plate emerging from the base of the triangular plate, which would be folded to form the hook. The item matches a Brian Read's 'post medieval class A type 2' hook and is similar to p.171 egs. 640-644

SUR-5493FB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A 16th century hooked tag comprising a rectilinear openwork design of trefoils and arches.

SUSS-56C670: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy Post Medieval decorative dress hook, c. mid-16th-17th century AD. The remains of the dress hook consists of the one-piece, shallow convex decorated plate, which is formed into the shape of an acorn, with a debased trefoil attachment knop and circular hole at the apex of the acorn and two further circular attachment-knops with circular holes positioned opposite one another at the base of the acorn. The two base attachment-knops flank the remaining fragment of the sub-rectangular blunt hook, which has broken at the bottom edge as it turns upwards; the hook would have ended in a flat-end. The acorn shape of the plate is emphasised with a set of two incised parallel horizontal lines delineating the upper acorn segment from the lower husk. The husk is further decorated with a series of incised intersecting transverse lines. The reverse is concave and undecorated. The dress hook is generally complete save for the broken blunt hook. The dress hook measures 38.31 mm long, 23.03 mm maximum width (at base loops), 3.5 mm thick and weighs 5.11 grams. Cf. Read 2008, 'Hooked-Clasps and Eyes', p. 175, nos. 660-661.

SWYOR-1CF925: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post-Medieval, copper alloy dress fastener; a single blunt-hooked and eye clasp, of Read class A, type 2 (three attachment knops, some with a collar, projecting and/or ridged), dating from AD 1500 - 1700. It has a flat, oval body with three attachment knops, one to either side and one at the apex (now missing), all pierced with circular holes. A broad flat hook projects from the base and is broken at the bend. It has no collar. The upper surface of the body has incised and stamped decoration comprising a border of punched annulets inside of which is a foliate design in the form of a fleur springing from the hook executed in larger annulet stamps and incised lines. Closely hatched lines add texture to the design and it is tinned. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The hook piece is 35.7mm long, 28.7mm wide and 2.1mm thick. 5.49g. Compare Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, numbers 639-644 on pages 170 - 171. Other examples can be found on the database; for example SWYOR-27DCBD, BERK-566135, HAMP-0045A, and SUR-027C73.

YORYM-E065AE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy toggle of post-medieval date. The toggle consists of a pointed oval body with a circular sectioned shank extending from one side and terminating in a figure of eight loop. The toggle is undecorated. The metal has a dark reddish-brown patina and is worn. The toggle is 25.5mm long, 18.6mm wide, 6.7mm thick and weighs 6g. This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period circa AD 100 - 200 as seen in SWYOR-E137B1 and DENO-D53724. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffle coat, as in SF-332DF0 and SWYOR-9FE646. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts.

LEIC-3269C6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Late Medieval to early Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 33mm long, 14mm wide and 8mm thick with a weight of 8.10grams. The object is complete and in fair condition and is rectangular in form and semi circular in cross section. It is hollow and has a circular sectioned tapering hook attached at one end, which folds over the flat reverse. The upper rounded surface is decorated with a raised lattice work pattern which is bordered top and bottom by two raised horizontal lines. The reverse has a rectangular hole centred at the opposite end to the hook. The object matches Brian Read's class C type 3.

SUR-5C227E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy plain tinned dress fastener. The fastener is of oval form with projecting attachment loops (one is missing) and a rectangular loop. Cf Read Class A Type 2 nos. 635-637.

WAW-2B6C55: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (mid 16th to 17th centuries) dress hook - hooked-clasp. A copper alloy dress fastening which is the 'hook' and not the 'eye'. The body of the dress fastening is oval in plan with a scroll motif in the centre. There are three rounded loop attachments on the edge of the fastening and has a projecting rectangular arm at the upper edge of the body. At the lower edge of the body is a broken terminal which would have originally formed the hook. The reverse is slightly undulating due to damage and is undecorated. It measures 34.83mm long, 19.76mm wide, 1.76mm thick, and weighs 3.79g The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (2008:164-5) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 10 which probably dates to the early Post Medieval period, perhaps the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing

LEIC-8333A5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy Post-Medieval hooked tag of Read's Class E Type 3 (Read, 2008, p.92, no. 325). It is badly worn and is missing most of its rectangular sewing lug at the top. The plate is circular in form with a hollow-domed boss which bears a forward facing bust possibly wearing a wreath or turban, arranged so the face points slightly towards the integral hook, which is circular in section and gradually tapers to the curved tip. The object measures 31mm in length, 12mm in width, 3mm in thickness, and 2g in weight. See also SF-DC02A3.

A Post Medieval copper alloy openwork dress fastener with a central heart on a pentagonal frame. The fastener is paralleled by Read no.409, although in that instance the heart sits within a circular frame.

WILT-2AE387: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy and champlevé enamel Early Post-Medieval hooked tag (eye section) of Read's Class A with four attachment-knops and an incomplete hook. The plate depicts a human head, facing, surrounded by pellets and annulets in moulded relief. The surviving champlevé enamel is blue and black. Cf Read p.178 nos 678-680

SUR-2E1298: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy hooked dress fastener. The fastener has a central raised rectangular panel decorated with a zig zag pattern. The outer edges are toothed. cf Read nos. 294-297 Early Post Medieval Class E single sharp-hooked clasps.

KENT-3DEDD8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post-Medieval (c. AD 1500-1600) silver gilt dress hook of Read's Class D, Type 5 (Heart-shaped/ Ovoid) (Read 2008, 71). The dress fastener is complete, with both the attachment loop and hook intact. The plate is largely flat and has a lobe on top, one on each side, and another above the hook. The plate is decorated with a raised foliate design consisting of a heart shape above three petels. The motif is contained within a raised border around the edge of the plate. The face and edges of the plate retain the gilding. The reverse of the dress fastener consists of a separate soldered sheet attachement loop which sits on the upper portion of the reverse. Below this, attached to the approximate centre of the reverse, is the hook. It has been flattened on the reverse of the plate and extends between the lower rounded knops. It is circular in cross-section and curls back towards the reverse of the plate, terminating a sharp hook. The object measures 16.4mm long, 11.3mm wide, 1.4mm thick and weighs 1.30 grams.

SUR-E7909D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy hooked dress fastener. Read (page 176, no.666) is very similar. The cast design is unclear but appears to show a central standing figure in a wide dress, against a table.

PUBLIC-7BDEF0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval copper alloy hook-piece from a hook and eye style "dress fastener" dating from about AD 1550 - 1800. The fastener is oval in shape and is openwork, highly decorated by multiple apertures from the front, and decoration in relief including a rose in the centre. At one end there is what remains of a sewing or attachment loop. At the other end a flat rectangular tab projects. This would have extended into a blunt hook, but has broken off. The front of the fastener is raised and the reverse is flat. It has a green patina with red coloured metal where this has become chipped. It is 35.25mm long, 18.6mm wide at it's widest, 1.29mm thick and weighs 1.9g. The FLO adds: A matching example is number 692 on page 181 of Brian Read's Hooked-Clasps and Eyes (2008). This fits into Reds Class A Type 13 Early Post Medieval Blunt-hooked and Eye Clasps.

SWYOR-F34467: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post-Medieval, copper alloy dress fastener; the eye piece from a single blunt-hooked and eye clasp, of Read class A, type 2 (three attachment knops, some with a collar, projecting and/or ridged), dating from AD 1500 - 1700. It has a flat, oval body with three attachment knops, one to either side and one at the apex, all pierced with a circular holes. A rectangular loop projects from the base. The upper surface of the body has incised and stamped decoration comprising a border of punched annulets inside of which is a foliate design in the form of a fleur springing from the loop executed in larger annulet stamps and incised lines. Closely hatched lines add texture to the design and it is tinned. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The eye piece is 36.6mm long, 28.7mm wide and 2.1mm thick. 5.67g. Compare Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, numbers 639-644 on pages 170 - 171. Similar examples can be found on the database; for example SWYOR-27DCBD, BERK-566135, HAMP-0045A, and SUR-027C73.

A Post Medieval copper alloy clothes fastener in the shape of a scallop shell with a triangular loop terminal, and three rounded attachment loops. Read no. 659.

CORN-530C15: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress fastener with an eye at one end which would have attached the corresponding hook of another fastener that was likely the mirror image of this one. The upper face of the fastener is decorated at the centre with a lion's head that appears to have ears and mane. On either side of the head are foliate scrolls which are connected by drapery under the chin. This pattern falls within two oval concentric borders with a row of pellets in between, that gives it the appearance of a cameo. There are two circular loops, one on either side of the rectangular eye, and another at the opposite terminal of the fastener, which are all 2 mm in diameter. These loops would have allowed the fastener to be stitched onto the item of clothing. Bailey (2004) illustrates a dress hook with a similar foliate pattern within an oval border on page 100, fig.2.43, which is dated from the 17th century.

LIN-5A1B7D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-medieval copper-alloy dress hook. It has a lozenge-shaped body. The top terminates with a loop, while the side angles both terminate with floral motifs. The bottom extends into an incomplete hook. A loop is situated to either side of the hook. The face of the mount is decorated with a symmetrical floral motif comprising a bud in the centre and leaves extending from it.

WAW-705203: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (mid 16th to 17th centuries) dress fastener - eye-clasp. A copper alloy dress fastening which is the 'eye' and not the 'hook'. The body of the dress fastening is oval in plan with a truncated end which, instead, has a rectangular loop. There are three rounded loop attachments evenly spaced around the edge of the fastening. The clasp is undecorated. The surface is abraded, but has traces of a mid grey patina which may be a white metal coating. It measures 36.78mm long, 27.78mm wide, 1.79mm thick, and weighs 4.45g The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (2008:164-5) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 2 which probably dates to the early Post Medieval period, perhaps the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Read (ibid) illustrates an almost identical example, No. 635. Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing

WILT-F0C6B6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Post-Medieval openwork dress fastener (c. 1500 - 1600). Read's Class E, Type 3 , Cf. Read 2008, p.105 no.410. It consists of a stylised heart, a projecting ridged and ribbed collar at the juncture of the plate and hook. The rectangular loop at the top of the dress fastener is missing. The dress fastener measures 21.36mm in length, 12.30mm maximum width, 2.64mm minimum width, is 1.56mm thick and weighs 1.07g.

A possibly Post Medieval copper-alloy sub-oval hooked fastener made crudely from a sheet of metal with a hook and six circular holes arranged randomly.

SUR-46FA93: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval openwork copper alloy dress hook. Cf. Read No. 404.

DUR-CD71E4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress hook of post-medieval date, c. AD 1550-1650. With the rectangular shaped loop at the top there are two smaller circular attachement loop holes either side of it. The body extends from this in a teardrop-like shape with a thrid circular attachment loop hole at the bottom. The body appears to have a faded fleur de lys on it. A similar example is listed in Read 2008, no. 631.

WMID-4A7542: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook (blunt hooked hook), of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1600 - AD 1700). The hooked tag is ovoid (oval) in plan, with four complete circular attachment knops (or loops). A rounded and obliquely grooved ornamental knop on the end resembles a scallop shell. An incomplete blunt hook is present. The centre of the tag is decorated with an oval panel bearing a probable stylised fleur de lys (lis) borded by spirals but perhaps a winged insect. The back is undecorated. The hooked clasp measures 41.4 mm in length, 24.0 mm wide and 2.7 mm thick. It weighs 5.6 grams. The hooked clasp is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decorational detail. A comparative example has been published as #679 in Read, 2008 (p178) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 9 which have four attachment knops and an ornamental knop. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating.

KENT-B6CE8F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An Early Post Medieval copper alloy dress hook of Read's Class E, Type 3, rounded. The plate is circular and convex with moulded foliate decorated on surface. At the top of the dress hook is a trapezoid loop and at the bottom is a D sectioned hook. A similar example can be seen in Read, Page 96 ref 350. The hook is 30.9mm long, 10.7mm wide, 2.1mm thick and weigh 1.31 grams.

KENT-B702EA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An Early Post Medieval copper alloy dress hook of Read's Class E, Type 8, Figurative. THe hook is one peice moulded relife in the shape of a convex scallop shell. . At the top of the dress hook is an uneven edge, presumably where where the trapezoid loop which has been broken off by an old break; at the bottom is a D sectioned hook. There are two circular rivets at the base of the shell of unknown functin. A similar example can be seen in Read, Page 115 ref 470 The hook is 29.2mm long, 13.9mm wide, 3.9mm thick and weighs 2.20 grams.

CORN-279B79: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress fastener with an eye at one end which would have attached the corresponding hook of another fastener that was likely the mirror image of this one. The upper face of the fastener is decorated with an anthropomorphic head represented by five rectangles in an arc above the head. On either side of the head are foliate scrolls which are connected by drapery under the chin. This pattern falls within two oval concentric borders with a row of pellets in between, that gives it the appearance of a cameo. There are two circular loops, one on either side of the rectangular eye, and another at the opposite terminal of the fastener, which are all 2.5 mm in diameter. These loops would have allowed the fastener to be stitched onto the item of clothing. Bailey (2004) illustrates a dress hook with a similar foliate pattern within an oval border on page 100, Fig.2.43, which is dated from the 17th century.

KENT-B0F9CC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Post Medeival dress fastening of probable 15th Century date. The fastener has a hemispherical head with twisted copper allloy wire, imitating thread, is wound around the raised three knobs to portray knots and loops. The reverse of the head is undecorated and has a separate shank that has been welded on with a white metal solder. There is white metal visable on the edge of the head suggesting that the fastening was silvered. The shank is circular sectioned and terminates in a point. Similar examples can be seen on the database: NARC-9BDBF3 The dress hook is 22.2mm long, 10.6mm wide, 6.5mm thick and weighs 0.92 grams.

DEV-1B7408: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, dating to c.AD 1600 - 1700. The dress fastener is oval in overall plan with a convex front-face. At one end is a rectangular apeture for attachment; at the opposite end is a smaller circular attachment loop. There are another two circular attachment loops on each side of the rectangular attachment end. The front face surface is decorated with a chequered pattern. The back face is convex and undecorated.

DEV-346497: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy hooked clasp or eye fastener of 17th century date. The front face is convex with a moulded relief scallop shell design. There are three integral attachment loops; one at the top of the shell, the other two are placed at each side of bottom of the shell. There is a rectangular attachment loop at the bottom of the fastener.The fastener is Read class A type 6. See Read (2008) page 174 No 657 and 659 for similar examples. The fastener probably dates from AD 1600 to 1700.

WMID-6CE62B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress hook (blunt hooked eye), of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1600 - AD 1700). The hooked tag is ovoid (oval) in plan, with one attachment loop on the left side and two on the right to either side of the rectangular eye section. The centre of the tag is decorated with an oval panel bearing a possible foliate and floral design within a beaded border. The attachment loops are rounded. The hooked clasp measures 37.0 mm in length, 27.6 mm wide and 2.4 mm thick. It weighs 6.2 grams. The hooked clasp is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decorational detail. A comparative example has been published as #641 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 8 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating.

WMID-D1E553: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress hook (hooked tag or clasp), of Post Medieval dating (16th to 17th Centuries AD). The tag is broadly oval in plan view and D-shaped in section. The egg-shaped body of the mount is convex in shape with a hollow reverse. The mount is flanked with a round attachment loop on either side, and a third round attachment loop from the bottom centre. The internal diameter of the attachment perforations is approximately 2.7mm. There is a sub rectangular loop (fastener) with a sub rectangular perforation, this would have held the hook in place. There is no surface decoration on the front or reverse of the mount. The hook measures 30.1 mm in length and is 23.5 mm wide. It has a thickness of 6.03 mm (the metal is 1.8 mm thick), and weighs 3.8 g. The hook is a dark brown in colour with an even patina. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil may have resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail. The hooked tag is similar in style to those classified as an Early Post Medieval blunt hooked clasp, Class A, Type 2 (Read, 2008, page 168, illustrations 625-627). These are considered to be of 16th to 17th Centuries dating. Reference: Read, B. 'Hooked Clasps and Eyes'. Portcullis Publishing, Langport, 2008.

YORYM-3E46CE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress hook of post-medieval date. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 1 being formed of a single strip of metal. The strip is folded in half and flattened at the bend which forms the hook, while the arms terminate in attachment spirals. A sporadic white metal coating, probably tin, is present over the surface of the object. The dress hook is 27.6mm long, 14.2mm wide, 2.8mm thick and weighs 1.7g. A similar example is illustrated in Read, p.155, no.583 and is dated to the early post-medieval period.

NMS-65CBD2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete cast copper alloy Post Medieval hooked tag, The tag has an oval convex body, moulded and convex at the front with a hollow back. At one end the axial hook or eye is missing from an old break, with the original attachment point flanked by semi-circular tabs pierced with circular holes. There is a similar tab positioned axially at the opposite end of the body. The front face of the body is decorated with a fleur de lis or floral decoration the central projecting leaf of which is flanked by annulets. The front face retains some evidence of a surface finish, probably tinning. A similar example is shown in Read, B Hooked Clasps and Eyes; p169; No.630/631 which is dated to the 16th-17th century. Dimensions; length 32.0mm, width 16.79mm, thickness 4mm, weight 4.7g.

BERK-E61789: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress fastening (eye section), dating to the early Post-medieval period (AD 1600 - AD 1700). The fastening is oval in plan, with one attachment loop at the narrow end and two at the opposing end either side of the rectangular eyelet. The centre of the tag is decorated with an oval panel bearing a possible scrolled foliate design within a beaded border. The attachment loops are rounded, and an ornamental knop is present on either side of the tag, although these are now quite worn. The back is plain and undecorated. A comparative example has been published in Read (2008:176 no 665) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hook and eye clasps, Type 8 having three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating.

KENT-61FF07: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post-Medieval (c. AD 1500-1600) silver gilt dress hook of Read's Class D, Type 5 (Heart-shaped/ Ovoid) (Read 2008, 71). The dress fastener is complete, with both the attachment loop and hook intact, however the latter has been flattened slightly and now bends to one side. The plate is largely flat and has a lobe on each side, with a rounded knop on either side bordering the hook. The plate is decorated with a raised foliate design, consisting of a five-petalled flower, the upper petals forming a rounded protrusion on the upper portion of the plate. The flower motif is contained with a raised triangle, the lower of which bifurcates to form a curling scroll which forms the lower rounded knop on either side of the plate. There are a number of raised pellets dispersed throughout the design. The reverse of the dress fastener consists of a separate soldered sheet attachement loop which sits on the upper portion of the reverse. Below this, attached to the approximate centre of the reverse, is the hook. It has been flattened on the reverse of the plate and extends between the lower rounded knops. It is circular in cross-section and curls back towards the reverse of the plate, terminating a sharp hook. The object measures 17.7 m in length, 11.9 mm wide, 5.6 mm thick at the attachment loop and 8.0 mm thick including the hook. It weighs 1.98 g.

SWYOR-0B30F5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post-Medieval, copper alloy dress fastener; a single blunt-hooked and eye clasp, Read class A, type 2, dating from AD 1600 - 1700. It has a flat, oval body with three attachment knops, one to either side and one at the apex, all pierced with circular holes Two short stumps of metal at the attachment end of the body are all that remain of a rectangular attachment loop or catch that has broken away and is now missing. The upper surface of the body has incised and stamped decoration comprising a border of punched annulets inside of which is a foliate design in the form of a fleur springing from the catch. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The tag has a light brown patina. It is 31.9mm long, 27.7mm wide and 1.6mm thick. It weighs 3.65gm. Compare Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, numbers 639-644. Other examples can be found on the database; for example BERK-566135, HAMP-0045A, and SUR-027C73.

DEV-0170E7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A postmedieval copper alloy hooked clasp or eye fastener of 17th century date. The front face is convex with a moulded relief scallop shell design. There are the remains of three integral attachment loops; one (still intact) at the top of the shell, the other two (now broken) are placed at each side of the shell. There are the remains of a rectangular attachment loop at the bottom of the fastener (now broken).The fastener is Read class A type 6. Please see Hooked-clasps & Eyes, Brian Read, Portculis Publishing 2008, page 174 No 657 and 659 for similar examples. The fastener probably dates from AD 1600 to 1700.

A cast copper alloy dress fastener of trefoil form with originally four spheres, the central one of which is missing. There are traces of a silver coating. The fastener is decorated with a circular filigree and pellets and has a rectangular attachment loop on the back. Cf Read 260-1 etc.

NMGW-4E90C6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Silver object in the form of a trefoil-shaped blunt hooked clasp, fractured across trefoil, with traces of a repair on the hook. The hook has been flattened out, and no gilding is evident. The trefoil comprises three circular openwork back plates, to which twisted wire filigree circlets and pellets have been soldered. After the reverse of each had been filed flat, they were soldered together. Three twisted filigree decorated perforated circlets provide points of attachment to fabric. The hook bears a maker's mark RM in a shield. The object has not undergone any cleaning or conservation. Dimensions: The object has a maximum length of 44mm, maximum width of 20mm, thickness of 2mm (including pellets), and weight of 3.244g. Metal Content: To judge from its colour and weight, and visual comparison with other silver jewellery in the collections of the Department of Archaeology & Numismatics, the item is silver (over 10%). Discussion: The hook superficially resembles eighteenth-century chatelaine hooks (e.g. Murdoch 1991, nos 417, 418), but having half the size and archaic decoration, the Talgarth find is a blunt-hooked fastener, and earlier in date. The twisted wire filigree decoration in combination with the use of small silver pellets is typical of sixteenth-century dress hooks, while the maker's mark points to a seventeenth-century date on the basis of letter form. The openwork relates it to Read's hooked clasp Class A, types 1 and 13 (Read 2008, 166, 181-2). A surviving felt-coat dated c. 1620-30 in the Museum of London shows how such hooks were used (MoL acc. no. A7582; Read 2008, figs 32.1, 32.2). The object is of sixteenth- or seventeenth-century date. It is my opinion that the object has at least 10 per cent by weight precious metal, and is at least 300 years old, and consequently the hook is treasure under Section 1 (1) (a) of the Treasure Act 1996.

SUR-A499D2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A 16th century cast lead alloy heart-shaped dress fastening with four domes. The loop and hook are both missing. The fastener is not clearly paralleld in Read.

SUR-A06F82: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener with a white metal coating. The fastener belongs to Read's Early Post Medieval Class A Type 1a with a single blunt-hook and eye clasps.

GLO-E1CBB2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy strap or dress fastener, this has an openwork roundel plate decorated by an oval panel in the centre, which maybe a human facemask, in each corner is a semicircle joining the central panel to the outer rim. The plate is flanked by a trapezoid loop on one side and a pierced oval knop with a scalloped outer edge on the opposing side. Date 17th century.

LON-BFC342: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy spiral of wire, possibly from a hooked tag, dating to the 16th century. The object is formed by winding a strip of wire at one end so that it forms a spiral. The end which has been wound is also flattened. There is a break along the shank that suggests the object extended further. The object is very similar in style and formation to the decorative elements on hooked tags found on the database which date to the 16th century (SUR-4DAF06 and LON-B99465). Dimensions: length: 20.64 mm; diameter of spiral: 10.41 mm; thickness: 1.27 mm; weight: 0.72g.

ESS-E628B1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete copper alloy hooked tag dating to the Post Medieval period. The object comprises of one half of a set and is the 'female' of the two. The tag is formed of a triangular plate with heart-shaped openwork centre and a crescentric shoulder at either side. From this plate the attachment loop, rectangular in shape with crescentic shoulders at each side, extends. A projecting 'T' shpaed bar is missing to an old break on the flat edge of the triangular plate. The tag measures 21.3mm in length, 18.5mm in width, 2.2mm in thickness and weighs 2.81g. Read (2008, pg. 187) illustrates a similar 'male' example, no. 703, which he dates to the early Post Medieval period. LIN-DFAF44, on this database, is a comparable 'female' example.

NMS-1101B7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Two almost identical incomplete medieval copper alloy double sharp-hooked clasps of Read's (2008) early post-medieval Class S, both composed of two elements, a front sheet plate and a double-hooked strip secured by a rivet. Both ends of one strip are missing, along with one end of the other. Being shield-shaped, rather than lozengiform, square or rectangular, the plates are exceptional. However, their decoration, rocker-arm engraving, around the perimeter and in oblique lines in the centre, is quite normal. Plate heights 24 and 23.3mm, widths 22.5mm, thicknesses 1 and 0.7mm. Estimated length of less incomplete hooked strip 41mm. 1450 - 1539.

A large cast lead alloy dress fastener of trefoil form. The fastener is missing its hook as well as its loop. The fastener is similar to Read no.258 or 232 but is larger.

PUBLIC-675406: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy oval hooked tag with three projecting loops for attachment to clothing and the larger loop at the top has been broken off.. The tag is decorated with punched lines and circles which form a floral spray. The tag belongs to Read's Early Post Medieval Class A, Type 8, eg no. 665 etc. Length 38mm, width 20mm, thickness 1.4mm . Weighs 4.26g.

SUR-8C7E57: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy delicate openwork dress fastener. The fastener is pear-shaped with a narrow hook and a narrow eye and a frame of open circles enclosing a plant-like device. The fastener may be later than the normal 16th century date range ascribed to the less elaborate examples.

NMS-B66644: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval copper alloy hooked object, probably a dress fastener. A sub-rectangular plate, with a single central attachment hole, is heavily gilt on one face. Ferrous staining on the other face is probably the result of burial conditions. An integral hook faces forward, i.e. towards the gilt face. No parallel has been noted. The object seems too delicate to be a harness fitting. Length 29mm (plate only 14mm). Width 8.8mm. 13th - 14th century.

BERK-63DCF2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress hook or hooked tag dating to the early post-medieval period. The hooked tag has an oval plate decorated with scrolling and floral patterns within a beaded border. There is the remains of the circular attachment loop at the top has a beaded collar with two attachment loops at the base near the complete hook. Two simple lobed knops are present on the central edges of the main plate (now worn and broken). The hook bends upwards towards the face of the object while the reverse is plain and flat. Comparable to Read's (2008) Class A Type 8 (for example no 663), these dress hooks date from the mid-16th to 17th century AD.

BERK-B8A0B0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy belt or strap fitting, the 'male' section of a toggle clasp dating to the early post-medieval period. The main body of the clasp is heart-shaped and openwork, forming a voided heart in its centre. Halfway down the outer edges of the heart are opposing projections or knops. At the pointed base of the heart, the clasp narrows into a hook that is curved towards the reverse of the object. At the opposing end a narrow bar projection also curves back; this would have slotted into a gap in clothing or the strap.. This clasp is paralleled in Read (2008) and is catagorised as Class F, Type 1 (see No. 703) and dated to the 16th-17th centuries AD.

CORN-BE8E53: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete cast copper alloy dress fastener or eye-section, lozenge-shaped in plan, with a rectangular eye that would have held the hook on the other half of a pair of fasteners. On either side of the eye are two circular side loops, which would have allowed the fastener to be sewn on to clothing, along with the third circular loop at the other end of the fastener, which is now mostly missing. Between the eye and the attachment loop terminal, the face of the fastener is decorated with a moulded rosette of four circular petals, alternating with four lozenge-shaped leaves or sepals, within a frame of two transverse lines at either end and two curved scrolls that meet in the middle on either side. The centre of the flower has a recessed pellet on an incised cross, and the sepals are defined by incised longitudinal and oblique lines representing the veins. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar dress fastener on page 100, Fig.2.43, which is dated from the 17th century. Read (2008) illustrates a similar dress fastener on page 179, No.683, which he classes as Post-medieval Class A, Type 10.

WAW-757E12: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (mid 16th to 17th centuries) probable dress fastening. A copper alloy dress fastening which is the 'hook' and not the 'eye'. The body of the dress fastening is oval in plan with moulded design consisting of crescents, annulets and a floral style design. The upper terminal and the lower 'corners' each have a perforated integral lug. Integral to the lower edge there is a wide elongated trapezoidal strip which is broken and was probably the up turned hook if it were complete. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress fastening is abraded and is a matte dark grey/green colour. The dress hook measures 45.56mm long and 28.39mm wide across the lower lugs. It weighs 5.3g. The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (2008:164-5) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 2 which probably dates to the early Medieval period, perhaps the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing

WMID-5D074E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook (blunt hooked hook), of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1600 - AD 1700). The hooked tag is ovoid (oval) in plan, with originally three debased trefoil attachment knops (or loops), of which one is complete, the other two are incomplete. An incomplete blunt hook is present. The centre of the tag is decorated with an oval panel bearing a a spray of three flowers, bordered by ring and dot motifs. A projecting angular collar is present at the juncture between the plate and hook. The back is plain and undecorated. The hooked clasp measures 34.5 mm in length, 24.3 mm wide and 1.8 mm thick. It weighs 3.7 grams. The hooked clasp is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decorational detail. A comparative example has been published as #640 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 2 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating. Several similar examples have been recorded on the PAS database, including: SWYOR-E47D07; SOM-66AE51; SOM-E0FF65 and SWYOR-6B0EA2.

KENT-6D93AC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval or Early Post-Medieval Silver dress fittings Date: Late medieval or early post medieval, 13th to 16th century AD Discovery: Recovered on 4th December 2012 from palaeo-environmental sample <33>. This sample had been retrieved by Canterbury Archaeological Trust in 2008 during a controlled archaeological excavation at Captain's Cabin, Wincheap, Canterbury (site code CCW EX 08). The sample was derived from context (859), a late medieval or early post-medieval occupation or demolition deposit. A number of other objects were recovered from the same context but as this was a general deposit these are not considered to have been deposited in direct association with the objects that are the subject of this report. Description: Two small silver objects were recovered from sample <33>. These were registered as small finds 983 and 984 respectively and are catalogued below. SF983. Silver wire ring. Two joining fragments of wire, connected at one terminal by being twisted together, with open terminals at the other end, probably once forming a penannular ring. Along most of both lengths the wire is bent in a repeating 'wavy' pattern. Length: 18mm (minimum). Weight 0.3g. SF984. Small penannular disc of gilt silver, possibly a sequin. Diameter 3mm. Weight <0.1g. Discussion: These items probably represent decorative dress-accessories of late medieval or early post-medieval date. As these items are more than 300 years old and composed of more than 10% precious metal, and therefore should be considered Treasure under the terms of the Treasure Act 1996. Andrew Richardson, Outreach and Archives Manager, Canterbury Archaeological Trust 16th December 2013

BERK-5B342C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early post-medieval cast copper alloy dress fastening, also called a hooked tag. The tag is lozenge-shaped in plan with three attachment knops, one at one point and two others either side of the hook. Ornamental knops are located either side of the remaining corners and one beside the single attachment knop; the other is probably missing. There is molded floral decoration in the center of the lozenge; the reverse is undecorated. This is the male section of a two-piece dress fastening. Read (2008) Class A Type 10 dating from c. AD 1500-1650.

SUSS-B084B5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval cast copper-alloy dress fastener hook-piece, dating from the 16-17th century AD. It has an oval plate with three circular loops for attachment: two at the base, protruding to each side, and one at the other end. There is a debased bifurcated knop midway along the long sides; one is missing and the other is abraded. An integral rectangular loop emerges from the pair of attachment loops at the base. The upper surface of the panel is decorated with a moulded symmetrical floral design with a central quatrefoil with knop at its centre and two coiled 'leaves' at either side. The perimeter edge of the sub-oval decorated area is raised. The back is flat and undecorated. It measures 37.33 mm long, approximately 20 mm maximum width, 1.8 mm thick and weighs 4.8 grams. This fastener is similar to two published by Read (2008, 175; refs. 664, 668) which he classifies as his Early Post Medieval Class A, Type 8 (oval). This artefact has corroded to a green colour but is largely covered in areas of tinning. Cf. PAS database record: SOM-88986D.

BERK-926627: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener or hooked tag of early-medieval date. The fastener takes the form of a sub-circular plate with two holes for attachement to the garment, and a thin shank with hooked end projecting from the opposing side. In this example the two attachment holes are incomplete but the rest of the fastener is intact. There is the remains of possible decoration on the front of the plate however it is too faint to be able to discern. These fasteners are of Saxon date (7th to 12th century AD) and this example can be catagorised as Read (2008) Class A Type 2. It is similar to Read's examples 55 and 70 (2008:14-16).

BERK-477069: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy blunt-hooked clasp, this being the hooked section. The clasp is formed from a single piece of metal, with a double eylet in one end then extending and looping back on itself to form the hook end, directly above the eyelets. The hooked end is in the form a snake's head, and the neck of the hook has scaled decoration on the top surface only. The decoration does not extend to the eyelet section. The features on the animal's head are well defined, with eyes and tendrils on the top of the head. This clasp dates to the 17th century, and although no exact comparison could be found in the usual literature, Read (2008:155-156) illustrates similar objects, which are catagorised as Class A Type 1.

YORYM-EFA801: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress hook of post-medieval date. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 1 being formed of a single strip of metal. The strip is folded in half and flattened at the bend while the arms terminate in attachment spirals. A sporadic white metal coating, probably tin, is present over the surface of the object. The dress hook is 10.6mm long, 7.4mm wide, 5.6mm thick and weighs 1.7g. A similar example is illustrated in Read, p.155, no.583 and is dated to the early post-medieval period.

HAMP-00454A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An Early Post-Medieval cast copper alloy dress fastener (eye clasp) dating to the sixteenth or seventeenth century. The object is of Read Class A Type 2, being oval in plan with three attachment knops and a rectangular attachment loop. The upper surface has incised decoration comprising a border of punched ring and dot motifs inside of which is a foliate design in the form of three flowers. Much of the empty space in the design has been decorated with tiny transverse grooves and very fine hatching. There is also an incised collar of three semi-circles between the plate and the loop. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a mid green patina. The object measures 37.2mm in length, 27.35mm at maximum width and weighs 4.37g. A very similar fastener is illustrated in Read 2008; 171, no.642.

CORN-1971E6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress fastener or hook, lozenge-shaped in plan, with a flat rectangular strip that is starting to curl upwards at the broken edge. This would have continued to form a hook that was used with an equivalent eye-section to act as a pair of fasteners. On either side of the base of the hook are two circular side loops, which would have allowed the fastener to be sewn on to clothing, along with the third circular loop at the other end of the fastener. Between the hook and the attachment loop terminal, the face of the fastener is decorated with a moulded rosette of four circular petals, alternating with four lozenge-shaped leaves or sepals, within a frame of two transverse lines at either end and two curved scrolls that meet in the middle on either side. The centre of the flower has a recessed pellet and two of the sepals have incised lines running horizontally to the tips. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar dress fastener on page 100, fig.2.43, which is dated from the 17th century. Read (2008) illustrates a similar dress fastener on page 179, no.685, which he classes as Post-medieval Class A, Type 10.

SUR-2A6BCB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A very worn 17th century cast copper alloy hooked tag. cf Read nos. 641 etc.

KENT-95ADF4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy clothes fastener.

KENT-95B978: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy clothes fastener.

KENT-95C0A5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy strap hanger in the form of a snake.

KENT-AB295A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast early post-Medieval (c.16-17th century) enamelled copper-alloy blunt hooked dress fastening of Blunt Early Post-med Blunt hooked Class A Type 2 (Read 2008, 172). The clasp is roughly oval in plan, with an attachment loop on either side just after the blunt hook, now folded down over itself although remaining complete, and one at the terminal. Each of the attachment loops has been broken off. The body of the clasp is decorated with 3 pairs of ovoid champlevé enamelled cells (alternating white and blue) running diagonally from a raised segmented central ridge and away from the hook. There is a final crescent cell of blue champlevé enamell abutting the central ridge. The reverse is undecorated but slightly concave, especially in the middle corresponding to the ridge on the front. Where visible the metal of the clasp is mottled dark brown and light green. The hooked clasp measures 36.99 mm in length, 17.82mm wide and 5.26mm thick. It weighs 5.04g.

LEIC-BC1DDF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy dress clasp, 38mm long, 24mm wide and 2mm thick with a weight of 5.30grams. The object is lozengiform and has slightly flattened corners to accomodate a rectangular clasp (now damaged) and corresponding circular fixing loops at each side, on one end and a circular fixing loop on the opposite edge. The main plate has a raised border with two small rounded projections at each point and a further two flanking the single fixing loop at the end. This is decorated witha central raised semi-sphere with a circular depression in its centre. This is flanked by eight petal like rounded motifs, four large and four small. The object makes up one part of a two part dress clasp.

LEIC-BC9BCA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy dress hook, 23mm long, 17mm wide and 1mm thick with a weight of 1.70grams. The object is incomplete and consists of a trapezoidal fixing loop which sits above a lozenge shaped plate. This has a raised solid border sitting inside a 'beaded' edge. Inside the border the object is plain. Below this, at one corner, are the remains of a raised collar which would have sat above the projecting hook.

PUBLIC-ECA10C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A late medieval - early post medieval copper alloy double sharp-hooked clasp dating 15th - early 16th century. This is a Read Class R Type 2 cast in one piece, the cetral design consists of two globular forms .. Dimensions: length: 53.49mm; width: 10.93mm; thickness: 3.56mm; weight: 5.60g. Other Read Class R on the database are LON-35BB48 and NMS-245967 Reference: Read, B. 2008. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. A Classification and Catalogue of Sharp- or Blunt-Hooked Clasps and Miscellaneous Hooks, Eyes, Loops, Rings or Toggles. Portcullis Publishing, Langport, Somerset.

HESH-3D246E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy dress accessory being the looped fitting from a hooked tag of probable post medieval date (1600-1700). The plate of the hooked tag is broadly oval in plan with a series of three projecting looped and pierced knops positioned evenly around the central plate. An integral rectangular loop is present at one end. This loop (female) would have taken the opposite hook (male) fitting and acted as a closing device on a cloak or dress. The plate of the looped fitting has a central floral decoration formed from a series of curvi-linear ribs and pellets. This central cast design is enclosed within an oval panel with a border formed of pellets in a raised rope-like pattern. The central element consists of a bewigged head enclosed within loops creating a flower petal like pattern. The reverse of the hooked tag is plain and flat. The hooked tag is of a mid brown-green colour and has an even but abraded patina that covers all surfaces of the artefact. The function of these fittings is not certain; they may have been used as dress fasteners or they may have had a variety of other uses. A direct parallel for this example has not been found, but the style suggests a 17th (possibly late 17th century / Restoration) date. The fitting measures 36.2mm in length, 27.6mm in width, is a maximum of 2.4mm thick, and weighs 4.47 grams.

SUR-A1A31C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy oval bodied clothes fastener. The fastener has three projection loops, an intact hook and punched symmetrical foliate decoration. cf.Read no. 639-644.

GLO-BD8D49: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'male' tag from a pair hooked tags The tag has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular hook at one end. Immediately behind the hook are two pierced knops for attachment. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design. This artefact dates to the 16th - 17th century.

SUSS-D15A7C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval cast copper alloy dress hook, dating to the 17th century AD. Read Early Post Medieval Class A, Type 8. The remains of the object consist of an oval plate bearing possible foliate and floriate design with a beaded border; rounded attachment-knops, the end one with a projecting rounded collar; a debased bifurcate ornamental knop either side; the blunt ended hook is broken off at its end. It measures 43.66mm long, 21.5mm wide, 1.85mm thick and weighs 6.4 grams. Cf. Read (2008) p 175, no. 663.

DOR-B939E9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy probable dress fastener. Part of a hasp and clasp pair of fasteners, although it is not clear if this is the hook or loop piece in this instance. It comprises an openwork, heart-shaped plate with a trefoil expansion at the point. The upper lobe of the trefoil is slightly expanded and is pierced for attachment. There are two further attachment holes at the opposite end of the remaining plate Flanking a lozengiform aperture. Inside the openwork aperture of the main part of the plate is a trefoil projection. The plate is flat. The hook or loop element has been broken off. Reference: Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, p.180 Date: Posyt Medieval - c. 1600 - 1700 Dimensions: 32.43 mm x 23.27 mm x 1.79 mm Weight: 3.44 g A similar item is recorded on the database in record SWYOR-E8B2B1

NMS-61D4EE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete Post Medieval blunt-hooked clasp. Sub oval body shape with three attachment loops, one side and the endmost of which are missing. Attachment hook at opposite end also missing from a transverse break. Front face engraved and punched with a floral design. A very similar clasp is illustrated in Read, B. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes (2008) p170: No. 639. Read class A, type2. Circa 1550-1650.

DOR-88DF5B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy blunt hooked dress fastener. As Read Class A, Type 2. It comprises an oval plate with a forward curving rectangular blunt hook at one end (the end of the hook is rounded). At the hook end the plate is flanked by two attachment loops with a third attachment loop at the apex of the plate at the opposite end. The oval plate is undecorated and the surface has file marks. The back is undecorated. Reference: Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, p. 170, Nos. 363 & 367 Date: Post Medieval - 17th century Dimensions: 40.92 mm x 26.19 mm x 1.51 mm Weight: 5.83 g

NMS-F3E51F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy eye-part of a blunt hooked clasp; Read Class A, type 8. Sub-oval body with two central side knops. The terminal end has an open rectangular loop to accomodate the blunt hook from the other half of the clasp. Three attachment tabs with central circular holes, two flank the body-side corners of the loop and the third is set axially on a short stub at the opposite end to the loop. The oval body has a twin oval border with beaded decoration within. The border contains a moulded foliate decoration. Read, B, Hooked-Clasps and Eyes; (2008) p175; No. 664 illustrates an identical example. Circa 1600-1700 AD.

DOR-F12D97: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of a copper alloy hooked clasp element. All that remains is the hooked end and part of the openwork plate. The plate probably had a heart-shaped aperture. The hook is wide, flat in cross section and blunt. At the missing end there would have been a toggle-like knop to attach this leather or other material. Reference: Read Class F Date: Post Medieval - 16th to 17th century Dimensions: 20.20mm x 15.72mm x 1.52mm Weight: 1.23g Similar clasps are recorded in Read, B 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes p. 187, No 703, where it is described alongside a similar "eye" element. It is suggested that these may have been used on sword belts.

CORN-51BB89: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Stamped and incised copper alloy dress hook with three lobed knops, one on each side of the fastener, and the third at the opposite end to the curved hook. Two of the knops are perforated so that the fastener could be sewn on to clothing, and the third has been damaged so that the perforation is now broken open. The hook would have linked to a corresponding rectangular eyelet which would have been attached to another fastener with the same shape and decoration. The upper face is decorated with a central stem and flower head, with foliage either side, in the form of twolarge bifid leaves. Bailey (2004) illustrates a similar example on page 100, Fig.2.44, which is dated from the 17th century.

SWYOR-3D9327: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Post medieval hook-piece from a hook-and-eye type fastener dating from AD 1550 - 1700. The body of the hook is oval and flat, with no apparent decoration apart from a white metal coating. There are three integral projecting attachment loops, one at the apex and one at each side of the blunt wide hook which bends forwards but which is incomplete. The dress fitting is 40.4mm long, 27.1mm wide and 2.1mm thick. 6.58g. Compare number 635 - 637 on page 169 of Read's Hooked Clasps and Eyes (2008).

SUR-F51E22: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy hooked tag with three attachment loops and a white metal coating. The three-sided loop for attaching the tag to its hooked pair is missing. The tag has punched decoration of annulets and lines. Cf Read Early Post Medieval blunt hook and eye clasps Class A Type 2, eg. no.641.

SUR-2279C1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy hooked tag with three projecting loops. The tag is decorated with punched lines and circles which form a flowering spray. Read's Early Post medieval, Class A Type 2, no. 643 etc.

NARC-9BDBF3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress fastener of Tudor (15th Century) date. A domed head 16mm in diameter, with 6 raised knobs arranged in a circle around both top and lower hemispheres. the top hemisphere has a large central knop, from the equivalent place on the lower hemisphere the pin or shank protrudes. This shank is approx. 22mm long and 1.8mm in diamter. It is broken. A twisted copper allloy wire, imitating thread, is wound around the raised knobs to portray knots and loops.

WMID-A06863: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy dress hook (blunt hooked eye), of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1600 - AD 1700). The hooked tag is ovoid (oval) in plan, with one attachment loop on the left side and two on the right to either side of the rectangular eye section. The centre of the tag is decorated with an oval panel bearing a possible foliate and floral design within a beaded border. The attachment loops are rounded, and an ornamental knop is present on either side of the tag. The back is plain and undecorated. The hooked clasp measures 37.07 mm in length, 21.43 mm wide and 1.70 mm thick. It weighs 5.0 grams. The hooked clasp is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decorational detail. A comparative example has been published as #665 in Read, 2008 (p176) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 8 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating.

YORYM-F297C7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast cooper alloy hooked tag of post-medieval date. The hooked tag is of Reads Class A, Type 2 being oval in plan with three attachment knops and a rectangular attachment loop. The upper surface is decorated with an incised foliate design with in a border of annulets and the reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a mid greenish-brown patina and is worn. The hooked tag is 37.3mm long, 30.2mm wide, 1.7mm thick and weighs 5.5g. A similar hooked tag is illustrated in Read, p.171, no.642.

YORYM-F2FAD7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast cooper alloy hooked tag of post-medieval date. The hooked tag is of Read's Class A, Type 8 being oval in plan with three attachment knops, two ornamental knops and a rectangular attachment loop. The upper surface is decorated with possible foliate and floriate designs within a beaded border and bifurcated ornamental knops project from either side. The attachment knops are rounded and the end one has a rounded collar. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a mid greenish-brown patina and is worn. The hooked tag is 40.4mm long, 22.2mm wide, 1.9mm thick and weighs 6.4g. Similar hooked tag are illustrated in Read, pp.175, 176, nos 664, 668.

WAW-F0CA12: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (mid 16th to 17th centuries) dress hook - hooked-clasp. A copper alloy dress fastening which is the 'hook' and not the 'eye'. The body of the dress fastening is oval in plan with possibly scroll motifs, but this is not certain due to the corrosion. There are three incomplete, rounded, loop attachments on the edge of the fastening and it has a projecting rectangular arm at a narrow edge of the body, which would have originally formed the hook. The reverse is undecorated. It measures 38.68mm long, 21.83mm wide, 1.57mm thick, and weighs 3.94g The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (2008:164-5) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 8-10 which probably dates to the early Post Medieval period, perhaps the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Read, B., 2008. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Somerset: Portcullis Publishing

SUR-0295FA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork dress fastener with a diamond-shaped central field with framing scrolls. Read no. 398.

WILT-98FD76: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy or lead alloy clasp of early post-medieval period (AD 1600-1700), Read Class A, Type 8 (with three attachment knops, two ornamental knops and a collared end-knop). The clasp measures 35.41mm in length, 20.37mm in width, 1.47mm in thick and weighs 4.10g. The clasp is composed by a flat plate of elongated shape with a rectangular knop on one side and three other single loops along the edges, two of them placed just under the rectangular knop and the other one on the opposite side from the first. The rectangular knop is broken due to an old break. The central part of the plate is decorated with the representation of an horseman. The reverse part is flat and undecorated. A similar clasp is recorded in PAS database WILT-0F22F2. Reference: Read (2008), p.177, no.670 and 672.

CORN-2792EC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete copper alloy hooked tag with four attachment-knops and a broken hook, now only 12 mm long. The plate depicts a human head, facing, with two annulets for eyes, surmounted by an arch of pellets and a tear-shaped bun, which may represent hair or a wig, and above a V-shaped collar with a pendant below. On either side of the head appear to be arms in sleeves with clenched fists that are holding looped drapery or perhaps ribbons, though they look too large in relation to the hair. Surrounding these moulded details is a field of pellets in low relief, within a border that arches above the head and meet in the middle to form two scrolls. The terminal at the opposite end from the hook is a moulded ovate knop with incised oblique lines in the form of a scallop shell. Read (2008) illustrates similar corresponding eye sections on page 178, nos.678-680, which are dated from the early Post-medieval period.

NARC-2CD994: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress fastener with blue and black enamel. There are 4 attachment loops, one of which is very worn and the edge is broken. The rectangular loop shows signs of wear. There is a simple, blunt ornamental knop. The reverse is pitted and slightly concave. The decoration is a central male bust, facing left, surrounded by foliate lines and swirls following the oval shape of the object. The patina is not at all corroded and retains its original brass shine. The enamel is chipped and missing in patches but retains its original colours. It is uncertain whether this patina is due to cleaning by the finder or the soil conditions in which it was discovered. The style is broadly comparative to those in Reads 'Hooked Tags and Eyes' reference book, page 178, classified as Early Post-Medieval Clas A, Type 9. Although no male bust type features in Read's volume the closest parallel in terms of enamel colours is No.687, in the tradition of 'Stuart enamels'.

SWYOR-5B3376: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress fastener or mount from dating from about AD 1200-1700. It is a lozenge shaped plate of copper alloy with no surviving evidence of attachment. The front has an incised border with short transverse lines between the border line and the edge of the plate. The centre of the plate is decorated with faint rocker arm decoration. The plate is 20.2mm long, 17.5mm wide and 1.9mm deep. It weighs 1.4 grams. The patina dark grey/brown. Similar objects include YORYM-5A4A44 which is thought to be a mount, and NMS-7DC651 which is a double hooked dress hook. This plate could be from a buckle, dress hook or other dress fitting.

OXON-B221D6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress fastener (dress hook) dating to the early medieval (Anglo-Saxon) period. The fastener has a shield-shaped plate with trilobed upper terminal each with a perforation, to secure to fastener to an item of dress. At the narrow end of the plate a short, tightly curved hook extends towards the rear of the plate. There is no decoration on either side of the plate. Read's Class D, dating from c. 700 - 1100 AD.

NMS-0B39A2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Late medieval to post medieval double sharp-hooked clasp of Read's 2008 Class S. Lozengiform sheet metal plate with central copper alloy rivet securing a separate sheet double-hook to the reverse. The face of the plate is decorated with a rectangle and a cross on saltire within an outer border, all engraved in interrupted rocker-arm. Length 50mm. Width 35mm. Cf. Read 2008, p. 134, no. 546. 15th-16th century.

CORN-3884A9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete cast copper alloy dress fastener, the 'eye' section into which the hook would have fitted. The fastener is flat with an octagonal central plate with a trefoil extension at one end and the remains of the eye, now broken off, at the other end, leaving only the stubs of the rectangular frame of the eye. The fastener is decorated with a shallow moulded floral motif of an eight-petalled flower in the centre and curlicues above and below within a slightly raised linear frame. There are three holes for attachment, all 2 mm in diameter: one at the top of the trefoil and two more on either side of the fastener at the lower ends of the octagonal plate. Read (2008) illustrates a very similar complete eye section with an moulded rosette on an octagonal plate on page 181, no.691, which is classified as Class A, Type 12 and dated from the early Post-medieval period.

BERK-4A4C82: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener with a white metal coating c. 1550 - 1650 AD. This example is described in Read's as an Early Post Medieval Class A Type 1a with a single blunt-hook and eye clasps. The surface is heavily eroded with fragment of a silver coating and ferrous staining beneath.

DOR-A65E08: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy dress hook fastener. The dress hook has circular central plate decorated with a moulded five petalled rose. There is a central circular hole through the rose and another circular hole below it, above the rearward hook. There is a rectangular attachment loop at the top. At the bottom is a D-sectioned rearward hook which tapers to a sharp point. Read Class E Type 3 Date: Post medieval - c. 1500 - 1600 Dimensions: 32.57 mm x 14.45 mm x 5.10 mm Weight: 1.75 g Similar examples are recorded in Read, B 2008 Hooked Clasps & Eyes, Nos 342 - 347

CORN-10183D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress fastener or eye in the shape of a bow with a central moulded roundel with incised cross hatching to create the appearance of a pomegranate or acorn. Each loop is triangular in plan and tapers towards the central roundel which is hollow at the back. The sides of the loops are D-shaped in section with rounded outer edges and straight internal edges. At the wide external ends of each loop, the outer bar is recessed and worn in the middle where it would have been attached to a hook or thread. There are patches of black lacquer on the front and back of the fastener which have been applied to protect the surface from corrosion. Read (2008) illustrates a similar dress fastener, but with the corresponding hook, on p.112, no.448, which is classified as Class E, Type 6 and dated from the early Post-medieval period.

PUBLIC-1BBE96: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy wound wire hooked fastener dating to the 16th century. It is compositely constructed from four lengths of wire. Two thicker grade wires with both ends bent into a sharp hook, are flanking a central thinner gauge wire shaped to form a single loop at each end. An even thinner wire has been wrapped around the fastener, to hold the other three wires in place. This thinner wire has been hammered flat once in place. Similar wire hooks and other accessories are illustrated and discussed in Egan & Forsyth (1997:227) and dated to the 16th century. This fastener is similar to Read's class G type 1 (Read 2008: 572), but it has the additional central loop ended wire. Dimensions: length: 33.52mm; width: 4.30mm; thickness: 1.61mm; weight: 1.10g. Reference: Egan, G. and Forsyth, H. 1997. Wound Wire and Silver Gilt. In Gaimster, D. & Stamper, P. 1997. The Age of Transition. The Archaeology of English Culture 1400-1600. Society Medieval Archaeology Monograph 15 (Oxbow Monograph Series 98) Oxbow, Oxford; Read, B., 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

KENT-B64635: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
The hooked element of a hook-and-eye clasp dating to the late 16th or 17th centuries. Description: The hooked clasp has a large square plate with rounded attachment lobes with square collars and a flat forward-curved incomplete hook. The lobes are set either side of the body and opposite end to the hook. Each of these lobes has been pierced and retain iron rivets. The blunt hook has a banded collar which is pointed at the body end of the blunt hook. Measurements: 27.93mm long, 26.17mm wide, 1.79mm thick and 2.21g in weight. Discussion: The hook matches Read's early Post-Medieval blunt hooked eye and clasp Class A, type 1 - oval. These are date c.1550/75-1700 (Read 2008, 164-171)

SWYOR-5EDA81: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook, Read class A, type 2, dating from the early post-medieval period. about AD 1550 - 1700. It has a flat, oval body with three pierced lugs for attachment, one on each side of the oval and one at the base. At one end of the oval is a transverse strip, and the remains of a broad, curved hook, part of which has broken away and is missing. The face of the body is decorated with an engraved design consisting of a spray of five leaves, edged with a border of small annulets. The reverse is plain. The hook has a smooth, light green patina. It is 39mm long, 28.1mm wide and 1.9mm thick. It weighs 5.58g. A similar dress hook is illustrated in Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, page 171, number 640.

BH-86DB31: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper-alloy one-piece dress fastener dating to the Post-Medieval period (c. AD 1550-1700). The fastener is broadly sub-oval in plan and rectangular in cross-section. Projecting from the central plate are three attachment loops for sewing; two at one end, and another bent one comprising the terminal the other end, either side of which is a small swirled knop. There is also a double-swirled projection situated halfway along each of the central plate's long edges. A round ended, rectangular sectioned hook projects from between the two attachment loops at one end. The upper surface is decorated with a motif in shallow moulded or stamped relief, possibly depicting a geometric standing facing figure within a raised oval boarder. The underside of the fastener is flat and plain. The object measures 40mm in length, 23mm in width and 2.5mm in thickness. It weighs 6.13 grams. Class A, Type 8 as per Read 2008, p. 176, no. 666.

DOR-73F730: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy hooked clasp dress fastener of Read class A, type 1 dating to c.1600-1700. The hook or eye is missing. The clasp comprises a circular openwork plate with three pierced lobes for attachment positioned at 11, 3 and 7 o'clock (with attachment end positioned to the side). The lobes are circular with a large circular aperture, one lobe at 3 o'clock is larger with a scalloped decoration. On the opposing side is the vertical break where the hook or eye would have been. When the clasp is positioned with the attachment end to the side, the openwork apertures frame an in-curved equal arm cross with a central panel with a moulded human face with a large circular moulding either side (possible hair curls). The reverse is flat and undecorated. Reference: Read.B, 2000, pg.166, no.616 Date: Early Post Medieval. Dimensions: 35.53mm x 35.53mm x 1.68mm. Weight: 3.04g

GLO-06A473: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-lozenge plate with scrollwork edges and a large rectangular loop at one end. At either side of the rectangular loop are two pierced lugs with a third at the rear for attachment. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design of a central flower surrounded by four small buds arranged in a cross saltire; to either side is a leaf with serrated edges; above and blow is a berry. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

NMS-D69265: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy arm-fragment from a Victorian skirt lifter. It comprises a circular-sectioned rod, now bent into a U-shape with a flattened oval terminal at one end, terminating in an old break across a circular perforation. Projecting from the opposite end is a shallow U-sectioned oval bowl. Just above the scoop is a wide transverse groove. These arm fragments have formerly been identified as cosmetic spoons or ear scoops of various dates. Similar examples have been recorded on the PAS database including: NMS-23AFEF, KENT-F94EBD, IOW-CEEE21, CORN-C851A6, LON-B74D20 & WMID-7F1F63, however as the record for KENT-F94EBD notes, none match the published forms for Roman (discussed by Crummy, 1983) or medieval cosmetic spoons (Discussed by Egan & Pritchard, 2002), indicating a likely post medieval date. This is also suggested by the patina. 19th century.

GLO-859B84: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Lead dress hook with a trefoil shaped serrated sided plate that supports three hemispherical domes. Each dome is decorated with a central boss on the top with four further bosses arranged evenly around the edge. In the centre of the plate is a large pellet that has three radiating ridges that dived the domes. On the reverse is a reward projecting rectangular lead loop, and at the lower edge is an expanded ridge that forms a socket that holds a rearward projecting hook made from a copper alloy pin.

SUR-8AE762: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early Post Medieval copper alloy cast convex eye segment from a blunt-hooked clasp, 43.3mm in length, with three attachment loops and a strongly moulded chequered pattern to the face. The square eye loop is broken. Circa 16th-17th century.

SUR-25624E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval cast copper-alloy openwork dress fastener with a pinecone or thistle in the centre. The hook is missing. As Read no. 402.

BERK-85D151: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval copper alloy dress hook, oval in shape with a broken 'arm' with two holes at one end; at the other a single hole. The face of the hook is decorated with three oval rings. In the centre an indistinct series of raised small knobs ?

DEV-BEEEDC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to c. 1550-1700. The loop or eye section of a two-part clasp. The object consists of an oval plate with a now incomplete rectangular attachement loop at one end. A circular attachment lug projects from the opposite end of the plate, with two further flanking the juncture between the plate and loop. The plate is decorated, all cast in relief, with a voided, equal armed cross with an annulet at its centre and with an inwards-curling scroll in each quarter, filling the space within the oval, with a plain border around the edge. Dimensions: length 38.3mm; width 20.0mm; thickness 1.4mm; weight 3.86g. Read (2008: 169) illustrates a range of similar blunt hooked clasps although none with this exact design. He suggests a mid-16th to 17th century date for this type of clasp. SOM-280526, on this database, is identical.

SUR-793BD4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
The hook component of a Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. The fastener has a white metal surface coating and punched foliate decoration with annulets. Read no. 639-644.

GLO-A126D6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular loop at one end. Either side of the plate are the bases of two truncated pierced lugs with would have been found at rear but again this is truncated. The centre of the plate is heavily corded but remains of a foliate pattern are just visible. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

LEIC-A28C7C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 40mm in length, 29mm wide and 2mm thick with a weight of 7.00grams. The object is sub- oval in form and rectangular in cross section. It appears to be undecorated, but has traces of tinning. It has a projecting circular loop at three of its cardinal points. The fourth houses a rectangular projection which would have housed the hook or loop.

BERK-3E29C3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener ('hooked tag'), with a round central body and an attachment loop on one side and a "spike" opposite. In the centre of the fastener is the profile of a possible female, facing left. Read Class E, Type 3, dating from c. AD 1500-1600.

SUR-CF18B7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval cast copper-alloy openwork dress hook with a moulded pine cone or thistle at the centre of the plate. The hook is missing. Read no. 402-404.

WMID-F7A09E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy hooked tag or dress fastener dating to the 16th century. The object consists of one piece of copper alloy with a rectangular in section hook placed vertically at the lower edge. There is a rectangular lobe placed at the upper edge of the dress fastener which has a large rectangular perforation. The body of the fastener is broadly circular in plan. The integral hook is now straightened and would have once curved to allow it to attach to another fastener on a garment. The end of the hook is rounded, possibly once pointed which has been damaged in antiquity. The decoration consists of an equal armed cross with a central pellet within a linear circle. The edge of the dress hook is beaded and engrailed. The body has a series of pinched circles within the quarters of the cross. Some of the circles have not been punched all the way through the body of the dress hook. The reverse of the object is flat and undecorated. The object has a mid-green coloured patina across all surfaces. Read (2008) illustrates a dress hook on page 99, No.370, which is dated to the 16th century. There are similar examples recorded on the database (WMID-38FE5C) discovered in Worcestershire and (KENT-F7E482) discovered in Kent. The fastener measures 34.65 mm in length, 16.21 mm in width, and 1.55 mm in thickness. Weight: 1.9 grams. Read, B., (2008) Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport, Portcullis Publishing.

WMID-F8C8B4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy hooked tag or dress fastener dating to the 16th century. The object consists of one piece of copper alloy with a curved rectangular in section hook placed vertically at the lower edge. The inverted-trapezoidal lobe placed at the upper edge of the dress fastener is now missing. The body of the fastener is broadly circular in plan. The integral hook is now slightly bent and distorted and would have once attached to another fastener on a garment. The end of the hook is rounded, possibly once pointed which has been damaged in antiquity. The decoration consists of a central circular moulded impression surrounded by seven broadly circular perforations forming a moulded relief and openwork design. The reverse of the object is flat and undecorated. The object has a mid-brown to green coloured patina across all surfaces. Read (2008) illustrates a dress hook on page 103, No.395, which is dated to the 16th century. There are similar examples recorded on the database (SUR-9FC092) discovered in Surrey and (KENT-E25E22) discovered in Essex. The fastener measures 28.94 mm in length, 17.09 mm in width, and 1.55 mm in thickness. Weight: 1.4 grams. Read, B., (2008) Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport, Portcullis Publishing.

SUR-07F7E6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy round bodied dress fastener with a facing bearded male head. The hook is missing. Read no. 322.

SUR-07FE73: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork dress fastening with scrolls around a central dished circle. Read 398.

SUR-08055C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy double flower dress fastening with a hollow back. Cf. Read 462-463.

CAM-09DA88: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete silver-gilt early Post-Medieval Class B, Type 3 (triangular) wire single blunt-hooked and eye clasp (Read, B. 2008). The surviving incomplete component is the eye part of the clasp, formed in two parts. The eye is formed of twisted wire (circular cross-section, diameter 1.0mm) folded in half with a rounded 'U' shaped centre (width 5.6mm), which acts as the eye's loop. The wire then tapers together before both ends curve outwards again to form a circular attachment-spirals. The spirals have a diameter of 4.3mm. The overall dimensions of the wire eye are: height 13.8mm, maximum width 10.0mm, thickness 1.0mm. A, now incomplete, triangular plate has been applied to the twisted wire eye. This silver-gilt plate has a height of 10.9mm, thickness of 0.7mm, and incomplete maximum width is 9.0mm. The apex of the triangle is positioned to rest between the attachment-spirals. The opposite straight edge rests 4.3mm below the top of the 'U' shaped eye-loop. Only the apex of the triangle survives, the other two corners having broken off. A single pellet (of 1.2mm diameter) is present of on the upper surface, of the plate, at the tip of the triangular apex. The surviving edges of the plate's upper surface have a single line of applied twisted wire (unless the wire is applied and then cut as if to appear twisted) forming a border to the edge. This wire has a width of 0.7mm. Due to the missing other two corners it is not possible to determine whether a single pellet would have been applied to the surface of all three corners. Five additional pellets decorated the centre of the plate, with a possible further two subtle hints of what may have once been pellets or the location of intended but failed pellets. The arrangement of the pellets present do not obviously suggest an intended motif or design. The applied border wire and pellets increase the thickness of the plate to 1.4mm. The maximum thickness of this eye component, loop, plate and applied decorative elements combined is 2.0mm. Weight of the incomplete component is 0.58g. See Read, B., 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Langport : Portcullis Publishing, pp158-161. Compare DUR-8DEB6C, SWYOR-DBA47D and NMS-57F66D.

SOM-0BD72E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to c. 1550-1700. The loop or eye section of a two-part clasp. The object consists of an oval plate with a rectangular attachement loop at one end. A pointed attachment lug projects from the opposite end of the plate, with two further projecting from the sides of the plate. The plate is undecorated, but is white metal coated. Dimensions: length 36.8mm; width 26.7mm; thickness 2.0mm; weight 5.61g. Read (2008) illustrates a range of similar blunt hooked clasps, with this example fitting into his class A, type 2, dated to AD 1550-1700.

A Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork hooked fastener with three attachment loops, decorated with a curving arm cross containing a human mask. Read 617.

SUR-49001B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy oval framed dress fastener with a bust facing left. The fastener has its hook missing. Read no. 335-336.

SUR-4ABB10: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy blunt hooked post Medieval dress fastener. The plate is tinned and has engraved foliate decoration in the form of flanking leaves around a central stalk with a flower, all within a border of annulets.

SUR-CD6CA5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener with three domed conjoined circles and traces of a hook and loop attachment. Read no. 258.

KENT-9B2422: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete and heavily worn Post Medieval cast copper-alloy dress hook c.AD1550-1700. Description: Class A, type 2 dress hook. This hook is white metal coated, which has largely worn away. The main section has a floral design which is bordered by a ring and dot pattern, the dots also appear on the leaves and stem of the flower. The hook has been damaged, likely in antiquity, resulting in the projecting attachment-knops being missing, as well as the eye section. The back is flat and undecorated; the hook is a pale green/silver colour with some light brown patches visible. Dimensions: Length 27.69mm, width 18.70mm, thickness 1.63mm and weight 3.34g. Discussion: Read illustrates a few similar examples (2008: 170-171), numbers 639-644.

PUBLIC-303B30: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper-alloy dress hook of Post-medieval date with would have been used with a corresponding eye that mirrored the shape and decoration. At one end is a T-shaped bar or toggle, which would have attached to textile or leather, which expands into the plate with a transverse groove just inside from the edge. It has a sub-rectangular plate with moulded and openwork deocration in the form of a central heart and a pair of projecting rounded lobes at the hook end. Between the heart and the bifid lobes is a U-shaped notch on each side, before it expands to the lobed collar and then tapers again to the integral rectangular incurving hook. The front face of the collar is decorated with a transverse groove and there is also a patch of tinning remaining, which would have coated the dress hook to make it appear like silver. See records SF-0CB3B3 and PUBLIC-F0DB65 for a complete pair. ​Read (2008) illustrates a very similar dress hook that was used with sword belts on p.187, no.703, which he classifies as Class F, Type 1, and dates from the 16th to 17th century

WMID-476552: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook of the early Post Medieval period, circa AD 1600 - 1700. The hook is sub oval in shape, with the remains of the hook protruding from one end. The main body of the dress hook has three perforated knops projecting from the outer edge, one on either side roughly half way down the body of the object, and one at the rounded point of the oval. The front of the object is decorated with a foliate or floral design with a central trifoliate engraving, it has an outer border of incised or punched circles or rings. There is a ridged collar at the juncture of the plate and hook. The reverse is plain and undecorated. The object measures 37.32mm in length and is 28.18mm wide. It has a thickness of 2.27mm and weighs 6.0g. The object has an uneven patina and abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the plough soil may have resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail. A comparative example has been published as number 642 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified it as an Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasp, Type 2 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating. Similar examples have been recorded on the database, including WMID-59B4DD and WMID-6178F7.

DOR-6B0DC4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy blunt hooked dress fastener. A Read Class A, Type 2 clasp. It comprises an oval plate which is squared at one end where it narrows into a the remnant of a forward curving rectangular blunt hook at one end. The the plate is flanked by two attachment loops, one on either side towards the the end where the hook emerges with a third attachment loop at the apex of the plate at the opposite end. All the attachment loops have a central circular hole and a small knop at the apex. The front of the plate is decorated wirth a stamped and incised foliate design of a central stem with round ended leaves or flowers to the sides. Around the edge of the plate is a row of ring-and dot stamps. The rear is undecorated. Reference: Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, p. 170, Nos. 363 & 367 Date: Post Medieval - 17th century Dimensions: 40.91 mm x 28.23 mm x 1.70 mm Weight: 5.96 g

DEV-E94024: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to c. AD 1500-1650. The fastener consists of a piriform plate with a now highly abraded cast foliate design on its front face. The plate tapers into a slightl flanged transverse collar below which it terminates in a rear-facing sharp hook. An incomplete attachment loop expands from the broad end of the plate. One face appears to have originally been decorated with a cast foliate design, but is now highly abraded. Dimensions: length 33.2mm; width 14.5mm; thickness 1.7mm; weight 1.65g.

SWYOR-FBCF94: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener, the hook piece, of Post-Medieval date, Read class A type 2, dating from AD 1550 - 1700. It has a flat, oval body, squared off at one end, with three fastening loops on the outer edge, one at the apex of the oval and one in the centre of each side. Each fastening loop is pierced with a circular perforation and has a small, rounded knop on the outer edge. In the centre of the squared end is an integral, projecting blunt hook, the end of which has broken away and is missing. One face of the fastener is decorated with a design of a three petalled spray of flowers or fleur de lis on a stippled background. The underside is plain. The tag has a dark brown patina with traces of a tin or white metal coating. It is 33.5mm long, 27.7mm wide and 1.9mm thick. 4.98g. A similar fastener is illustrated in Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, page 171, number 640.

GLO-3F06C5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
~~Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-lozenge plate with scrollwork edges and a large rectangular loop at one end. At either side of the rectangular loop are two pierced lugs with a third at the rear for attachment. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design of a central flower surrounded by four small buds arranged in a cross saltire; to either side is a leaf with serrated edges; above and blow is a berry. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

WMID-7A59BF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook (hooked tag or clasp), of the Post Medieval period, dating from c. AD 1500 - c. AD 1700. The tag is broadly oval in plan view and D-shaped in section. The egg-shaped body of the mount is convex in shape with a hollow reverse. The mount is flanked with a round attachment loop on either side, one of these is broken, and a third round attachment loop from the bottom centre. The internal diameter of the attachment perforations is approximately 2.2 mm. There is a sub rectangular loop (fastener) with a sub rectangular perforation, this would have held the hook in place. There is no surface decoration on the front or reverse of the mount. The hook measures 31.2 mm in length and is 20.4 mm wide. It has a thickness of 7.3 mm (the metal is 1.6 mm thick), and weighs 4.8 g. The hook is a dark brown in colour with an uneven patina. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil may have resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail. The hooked tag is similar in style to those classified as an Early Post Medieval blunt hooked clasp, Class A, Type 2 (Read, 2008, page 168, illustrations 625-627). These are considered to be of 16th to 17th Centuries dating. Others have also been recorded on the database including WMID-D1E553. Reference: Read, B. 'Hooked Clasps and Eyes'. Portcullis Publishing, Langport, 2008

SUSS-7AD13C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Complete copper alloy hooked clasp, AD 1550-1650. The hooked clasp is a single piece of metal that is convex. It is oval in shape with three loops arranged in a triangular pattern, two opposite and one at the apex of the oval. At the opposite apex between the two loops is the integrally cast hook, this is a rectangle of metal that has been back curved to clasp an eye on the opposite clasp. The front of the object has a chequered field in relief. The rear is undecorated. There is slight corrosion on the front of the hooked clasp. Read (2008), Number 634, page 170. The whole object has corroded to a red patina. Length: 31.98mm Width: 22.67mm Weight: 5.33g

DOR-B38512: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy hooked clasp dress fastener.The front is moulded and the rear face is flat. It has an openwork plate pierced with six perforations two circular flanking the main part of the plae, two kidney-shaped and two sub circular set around the central element of an inverted fleur de lys. The central element is framed by a V (the point above the top of the lys). The side edges are curvilinear in outline. There is a moulded collar below the plate at the top of the tapering hook. The hook curves rearwards and is 'D'-shaped in cross-section, flat at the rear. The hook terminates in a sharp point. Date: Post-Medieval c. 1500 - 1550 Dimensions: 27.6 mm x 18.5 mm x 9.5 mm Weight: 2.24g. A similar dress-hook has been published (Read 2008: 104, ref: 402). Read, B. 2008. Hooked Clasps and Eyes. Portcullis Publishing. Langport.

WMID-1C08AA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook of the early Post Medieval period, circa AD 1600 -AD 1700. The hook is sub oval in shape. The main body of the dress hook has the remains of three incomplete perforated knops projecting from the outer edge, one on either side just below the rectangular section, and one at the rounded point of the oval. At the other end of the oval is the remains of the rectangular perforation. The front of the object is decorated with a foliate or floral design with a central trefoil engraving, it has an outer border of incised or punched circles or rings. The reverse is plain and undecorated. The object measures 29.38mm in length and is 21.91mm wide. It has a thickness of 1.60mm and weighs 3.6g. The object has a green coloured uneven patina. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil may have resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail. A comparative example has been published as number 641 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified it as an Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasp, Type 2 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating. Similar examples have been recorded on the database, including WMID-59B4DD and WMID-6178F7.

WMID-1C4FA7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook of the early Post Medieval period, circa AD 1600 - AD 1700. The hook is sub oval in shape. The main body of the dress hook has two perforated knops projecting from the lower outer edge. At the other end of the object is a rectangular protrusion which originally would have been the base of the third knop. At either side of the oval are the remains of bifurcate ornamental knops. There are no remains of the suspension loop, which would have been situated between the lower two knops. The front of the object is decorated with an oval panel inside a beaded border; this is probably a human face wearing a headdress, although the object is very worn and it could possibly be a foliate design. The reverse is plain and undecorated. The object measures 27.53mm in length and is 21.91mm wide. It has a thickness of 1.76mm and weighs 3.1g. The object is mid brown to mid grey in colour, and has an uneven patina. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil, has resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail. A comparative example has been published as number 668 in Read, 2008 (p175) and he has classified it as an Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasp, Type 8 which have three attachment knops; other possible examples for the decoration are 663 and 664. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating.

SOM-215EBC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to c. 1550-1700. The loop or eye section of a two-part clasp. The object consists of an oval plate with a rectangular attachement loop at one end (now lost). A pointed attachment lug projects from the opposite end of the plate, with two further projecting from the sides of the plate. The plate is decorated with a stamped plume motif, within a border of punched annulets. Dimensions: length 26.1mm; width 27.4mm; thickness 1.2mm; weight 2.60g. Read (2008) illustrates a range of similar blunt hooked clasps, with this example fitting into his class A, type 2, dated to AD 1550-1700.

DENO-6139F4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy eye-section of a blunt hooked and eye clasp of the early Post Medieval period, circa AD 1600 - 1700. The object consists of a broadly oval plate, with an incomplete rectangular eye or loop at one end. The plate has three perforated knobs projecting from the outer edge, one on either side roughly half way down the body of the object, and one at the rounded point of the oval. The front of the object is decorated with a floral design with a central trifoliate engraving. It has an outer border of incised or punched circles. There is a ridged collar at the juncture of the plate and eye. The reverse is plain and undecorated. The object measures 37.4mm in length and is 29.2mm wide. It has a thickness of 2mm and weighs 4.88g. The object has an uneven patina and is slightly pitted throughout. A comparative example has been published as number 642 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified it as an Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasp, Type 2 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating. Similar examples have been recorded on the database, including WMID-59B4DD; WMID-6178F and WMID-476552.

YORYM-894600: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy chatelaine dress hook of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1600 - 1700. Reads Class 4, Type 2. The object comprises a central rectangular wound wire body housing individual wire strips which end in worn curved terminals. Only two of the terminals appear complete, the others having worn breaks. The metal has a dark green delaminated patina with dark red/brown showing through. The dress hook is 29.3mm long, 14.5mm wide, 3.2mm thick and weighs 2.8g. A similar example is illustrated in Read, p.147, no.576 and is dated to the early post-medieval period.

WILT-65E3F4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to c. 1550-1700. The loop or eye section of a two-part clasp. The object consists of an oval plate with a rectangular attachment loop at one end and a knopped perforated lug projecting from the other. There is a further knopped, perforated lug projecting from either side. The plate is decorated with a stamped plume motif, within a border of punched annulets and crescents. The item has a white metal coating. Dimensions: 39.56mm in length; 28.51mm in width; 1.56mm thick; 5.7g in weight. cf Read (2008: 171) no. 642

BH-8EEEA9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete complete cast copper-alloy dress fastener of Read's (2008:101) Class E Type 3, dating to the Post Medieval period (c. AD 1500-1550). The surviving features include a plain circular central field with raised circumferential border surrounded by moulded openwork patterning with semi-irregular perforations. The sub-rectangular attachment loop is now broken leaving just two short and worn stems. A D-sectioned pointed hook, the point of which is bent inwards on itself, projects from the opposite edge from a double collar. The object measures 26.4mm long, a maximum of 16.8mm wide and 1.8mm thick. It weighs 1.28 grams. See Read 2008, p. 103, no. 397 for a similar example.

GLO-F8C6A5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a circular openwork plate that is formed ring that forms the outer edge. Projecting inwards are four evenly spaced arches that grip a central roundel that is decorated with a human head. On the forward edge is a large rectangular loop (the front is truncated) that forms the female element for the corresponding hooked plate. Either side of the plate are two pierced attachment lugs with a third at the rear that has been shaped into a scallop shell.

PUBLIC-63A28D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
One part of a two piece cast copper-alloy Post-Medieval Dress Fastener, dating c.AD 1550 - 1750. This is a Read, B. 2008 early Post-Medieval blunt-hooked and eye clasp Class A, Type 1. It has a circular open​​​ work circular body, solid relief moulded anthropomorphic headed centre, three sub-circular attachment loops and a trapezoidally shaped eye. The central design is of a forward facing human face with a prominent curl of hair on its forehead and long hair with upturned curls hang down either side of its head. There is possibly a ruff, or high collar, around its neck. Curving bars (convexly curving towards the head) connect this central design to the outer circular frame, giving an open work design. The openwork pattern consists of four sub-circular veering to sub-triangular/sub-rectangular smaller apertures at the four cardinal points adjacent to the head. The four curving bars connecting to the outer circular frame create elongated oval apertures in each of the inter-cardinal points. The three sub-circular attachment loops project out from the body, on the same plane as the body of the artefact, equally spaced around the body. When viewing the front of the fastener, with the head the correct way up, the attachment loop to the left of the head as viewed (the head's right side) is slightly larger and a little more oval in shape than the other two. The front surface is moulded with radiating lines, from central aperture to external edge, which gives a subtle scalloped shell appearance. On the external edge of the fastener's body, on the opposing side of the face from the larger attachment loop, is the trapezoidal shaped eye, also on the same plane. Overall dimensions:- Length 43.44mm, width 35.6mm, thickness 2.23mm and weight 8.6gm. The circular frame has a diameter of 25.28mm, and the Eye connector measures 16.44mm x 10.06mm. See Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes pp.166-167, nos.166 & 167.

BH-209187: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete lead dress hook dating to the Post Medieval period (c. AD 1500-1600). The dress hook is trefoil in shape with three slightly raised circular motifs arranged around a central circular pellet, all within a plain boarder, which is missing and damaged in some areas. Each of the circular motifs consists of a central pellet, several radiating spokes and a plain outer circular edge. Beneath the lower motif is a plain rounded knop with a short piece of bent circular-sectioned copper-alloy as part of the pin. On the underside of the dress hook there is a rectangular recession formed by raised edges and below this a raised rectangular plate that houses the pin. The dress hook measures 26.3mm long, 21.8mm wide, 6mm in maximum thickness and weighs 9.69 grams. See SUR-A8F5EA and GLO-859B84 for two comparable objects recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database.

SWYOR-61FB8D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy hook piece from a hook and eye blunt hooked fastener dating from the Post Medieval period, about AD 1550 - 1700. It is a hook of Read's class A type 12. It is cast in one piece and has relief decoration on the front face. It is sub-pentagonal in plan, with a tri-lobed terminal at one end, and a wide, blunt hook extending form the other end and curving forwards. The centre lobe of the lobed terminal would have been an attachment loop, but is damaged. There are also two holes in the plate, one in each corner at the hook end. The decoration is a central four petalled flower with sepals and fronds, with scrolls at each end. The plate is bent on an angle across the centre. The hook is 31.9mm long, 20.3mm wide and 8.1mm thick as bent. The plate is 2mm thick. 6.1g. The metal seems to have a high lead content and may have had a white metal coating. A very close parallel is Read number 690 on page 181 of Read (2008) Hooked-Clasps and Eyes.

SWYOR-DC1EE1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy fastening loop from a clothes fastener, dating from the Post-Medieval period, AD1500-1700. It is formed of wire which has been bent into three loops, two for sewing the fitting to textiles and a larger loop to take the fastening hook. The smaller two loops abut each other. The fastener has a medium green/brown patina. It is 10.5mm long, 8.7mm wide and 1mm thick. It weighs 0.14g. See Read (2008) Page 156 number 587-8, Class A type 1. It is possible that there was originally a decorative plate attached to the front of this eye piece covering the join of two smaller loops.

A worn near complete copper alloy dress hook eye of the early Post Medieval period, circa AD 1600 - AD 1700. Description: The hook has sub-oval plate with a rectangular looped eye at one end. There are two perforated knops flanking the eye for attachment and a third at the other end of the main plate. The terminal attachment knop has a decorative scrolls at its base. There are decorative scroll knops either side of the middle of the plate. The main plate has cast relief decoration consisting of three borders, the outer one formed from the edge of the plate, the inner is feathered with some extenuation via engraving and the inner border is solid. Within the borders is a floral device flanked by large pellets perhaps intended to be leaves. The reverse is undecorated with some minor finishing. Some slight bevelling may have occurred around the outside but it is obscured by ware. It has a grey green patination with some surface pitting Measurements: 39.5mm long, 23.25mm wide and 7g in weight. Discussion: Comparative examples have been published by Read (2008, 175) nos. 663, 664 and 668. These are classified as Early Post- Medieval Class A, single blunt hooked and eye clasp, Type 8, defined by three attachment knops and dated 17th century. Similar examples are also recorded on the PAS database @:WMID-1C4FA7, NMS-E30B8E, BERK-E61789 and NMS-F3E51F.

NMS-FB7598: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete early post-medieval copper-alloy catch-piece from a hook and eye dress fastener of Read's (2008) class A, type 13. It is oval and openwork with a central lozenge-shaped flower of four pointed petals arranged diametrically. Tendrils and other foliation radiate from this to the perimeter of the oval. On the outside of the oval at one end is a small trefoil knop. At the opposite end is the rectangular base of the missing loop or eye, which exhibits two short worn stumps where the eye has broken away and is decorated with two parallel transverse grooves. Among the openwork voids of irregular shape are six circular holes: a pair at the loop end, another pair at the knop end and a single hole at centre of each of the long sides. These are likely to have been for attachment to the garment. Close parallels on this database are NMS-4337A3 and WILT-BECDF5. A slightly different, but more complete example is DOR-38FC45. 16th to 17th century. Length: 30.9mm. Width: 21.7mm. Thickness: 2.0mm. Weight: 2g

YORYM-6E4B57: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy and enamelled dress fastener of Post-Medieval dates, c.AD 1550 – 1700. Reads Class A, Type 2. The clasp is sub-ovate in plan with one remaining attachment loop to the wider end of the plate. The remains of two other loops can also be determined: one to the opposite side of the plate, the other to the narrower end. These display worn breaks. The centre of the front of the plate is decorated with a median segmented band with three oblique ovoid recesses to either side. At the wider end of the plate, sub-triangular recesses are also present to either side of the median band and a sub-U-shaped recess is present at the end of the band. The recesses retain alternating black and white champlevé enamel. The edges of the plate are engrailed and the reverse is flat and undecorated. The dress fastener is 31.86mm long, 19.86mm wide, 2.63mm thick and weighs 4.18g. Similar examples have been recorded on the PAS database including WMID-8BC844 and KENT-AB295A which also retain enamel. A similar example is also illustrated in Read (2008), p.172, no.646 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Reference: Read, B. (2008) Hooked Clasps and Eyes. Portcullis Publishing. Langport.

BERK-A6DF6C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval copper alloy dress hook, oval in shape with a broken hook at the end and with two holes at one end; at the other a single hole. The face of the hook is decorated with three oval rings. In the centre an series of three raised small knobs surrounded by curvilinear decoration. See BERK-85D151 and SUSS-B5CC4B for similar. Length: 40mm, Width: 22.3mm, Thickness: 1.4mm, Weight: 5.4g

DEV-30D184: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress fastener, dating to the post medieval period, c. AD 1500-1650. The object consists of a rectangular sewing loop, which has slightly bevelled edges. this is attached to an openwork decorative plate with central moulded decoration. There are four apertures on either side of the central moulded design, one of which is now infilled with sediment. The moulded design is a central rounded object composed of at least seven raised circles, which Read identifies as a pinecone or pineapple motif (Read 2008: 104). This is placed atop a downward pointing triangle which has two smaller triangles beneath it. The reverse is plain and undecorated. The integral hook curves around 180 degrees, tapering to its sharp point. NMS-974D25 and SUSS-E08B62 are very similar examples recorded on the PAS database. Read (ibid) presents a further parallel, no. 402. Measurements: 33.8mm length, 14.2mm width, 1.7mm thickness, weight 3.26g.

PUBLIC-C39666: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy dress hanger of post-medieval date (c.1680-1720). Description: The object has been cast in one piece, with a now incomplete hanging fixture on the reverse and the remains of the rivet fixture at the base. The top of the object is a formed loop with an internal diameter measuring 4.71mm and with sloping shoulders to form a rounded corner, sub-rectangular, decorated pendant type shape with embossed edges and further decoration, including the remains of some gilding. The top half of the decoration has a pear-shaped raised edge and a raised central human face, possibly with crown or hat, with recessed areas at both sides. The lower half of the object has raised acanthus vine work surrounding recessed areas between which appears to be the spine of a leaf and its veins. The reverse is plain and undecorated, with the remains of a metallic support which has broken at mid point but which perhaps extended to the rivet at the base and then on to form a possible hook. The object has a greenish/brown patina. Measurements: 31.02mm long, 15.27mm wide, 3.63mm thick. Weighs 3.5g.

SWYOR-754D3E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-Medieval, copper alloy dress fastener of Read class B type 2, dating from about AD 1700 - 1900. It has a circular front plate of pressed sheet metal, to the reverse of which is attached a double strand of wire shaped into a blunt hook at one end and two circular attachment loops at the other one of which is broken. The front plate has a slightly scalloped edge, moulded with a series of small pellets, and a central moulded design of a flower made up of six petals and a central pellet. The fastener 14.5 mm long 13.3mm wide 2.9mm thick. It weighs 0.7g. Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, illustrates fasteners of this type on page 159. There is also a similar fastener recorded on he database at record number LVPL-859AC5. Both of these examples are, however, in silver, not copper alloy. The machine pressed metal of the plate on this example suggests a later date, while plain hooks of this style are in use up to the present day.

NMGW-4D9D70: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy clothes fastener dating to the Post-Medieval period. The object is made in openwork style in the form of knotwork forming three loops, with a bar attached to the finials of the knots. The reverse of the object is flat and undecorated, while the obverse is decorated in moulded relief in the form of ropes/string with rose shaped finials. This fastener is 16.03mm in length and 15.97 mm in width; and 2.13 grams in weight.

NARC-DAA6FD: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy probable fastener, possibly button and loop style, dating from the late Iron Age to early Roman period (100 BC - AD 150). There are no direct classification parallels for this item, though it is likely related to Wild (1970) type 1 button and loop fasteners. The item is comprised of two conjoined disc lugs. The lugs are arranged side by side. The upper surfaces of the discs are decorated with four raised circles, increasing in size. From one edge of each of the discs an integral sub-rectangular loop projects. The underside of the object is undecorated. Known examples of Wild type 1 fasteners, the attachment point for the loop does not originate at a single point on the main body of the element (see YORYM-B82E75). Length: 17.71mm, Width: 24.85mm, Thickness: 3.87mm, Weight: 5.0g The metal is mid-green/brown in colour with a slightly pitted patina. Similar examples can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: WMID-5CC482, WMID-07E690, SWYOR-F95EC6 (toggle), IOW-67B9E2, and ESS-BF9326

PUBLIC-76F0EB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy wound wire quadruple sharp-hooked fastener dating to the 16th century. It is compositely constructed from five lengths of wire. Two thicker grade wires with both ends bent into a sharp hook, are flanking two central thinner gauge wires shaped to form a single loop at each end. An even thinner wire has been wrapped around the fastener, to hold the other four wires in place. This thinner wire has been hammered flat once in place. Similar wire hooks and other accessories are illustrated and discussed in Egan & Forsyth (1997:227) and dated to the 16th century. This fastener is similar to Read's class G type 1 (Read 2008: 572), but it has two additional central loop ended wires. Dimensions: length: 28.20mm; width: 11.20mm; thickness: 2.26mm; weight: 1.12g. Reference: Egan, G. and Forsyth, H. 1997. Wound Wire and Silver Gilt. In Gaimster, D. & Stamper, P. 1997. The Age of Transition. The Archaeology of English Culture 1400-1600. Society Medieval Archaeology Monograph 15 (Oxbow Monograph Series 98) Oxbow, Oxford; Read, B., 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

BUC-70623C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy early post medieval hooked tag or dress hook, dating to c. AD 1550-1650. The front of the hooked tag is decorated with moulded relief, with a dark black coloured enamel in the recesses. The motif is unclear, Read (2008) suggests it is a winged insect. The hooked tag is oval shaped, with one end wider. The wider end has a circular loop either side, in between this extends the attachment knop which is worn and broken. At the opposite narrower end projects a rounded knop, either side of this is a circular loop, one of which is worn and broken. There is no decoration on the reverse. The hooked tag is worn, and has a light to mid green patina. The tag measures 39.0mm in length, 24.9mm in width, and weighs 5.71g. A similar tag can be seen in Read 2008, page 173, number 652.

DEV-ADEECD: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener. The loop or eye section of a two-part clasp. The object consists of an oval plate with a pair of small round lugs with drilled holes (c.1.2mm diamater) forming side loops, a rectangular attachment loop at one end, and a broken basal loop at the opposite end. The artefact has a dark green patina with some areas that are reddish brown. The front of the plate is decorated with an incised line floriate pattern. The reverse is flat and plain. The dress fastener is 35 mm in length, 29.8 mm wide, and 2.2 mm thick. It weighs 5.8 g. Similar examples are recorded on PAS, including SOM-215EBC. Read (2008, pp.170-171) illustrates a range of similar blunt hooked clasps, with this example fitting into his early post-medieval class A, type 2, dated to the early Post-Medieval period c. AD 1550-1700.

DEV-3F9FD8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A nearly complete cast copper alloy dress fastener (dress hook / hooked tag). The fitting has a circular plate, trapezoidal loop and is missing only the tip of the hook. The main circular plate has a shallow concave back and a moulded relief on the front. The front depicts a human facing-mask within two concentric circles - the inner linear and the outer pellets - with a cabled border. At the juncture of the plate and hook there is a rigid collar perhaps depicting a human facing-mask. The fastener is nearly complete, missing the tip of the hook. The dress fastener is 41.1 mm in length, 18.8 mm wide, and 3 mm thick. It weighs 2.5 g. A nearly identical fastener is depicted by Read (2008, p.92), Class E Type 3, no.322, which he dates to the early post-medieval period, c. AD 1500-1550.

OXON-43CBBC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy early Post-Medieval dress hook of Read's Class E, Type 6, dating to the period AD 1500-1600. The object has been cast in one piece in moulded-relief and openwork. The frame is in the form of quatrefoil 'knot' with five raised pellets. The outer frame is decorated with grooves. Where the object extends to form the rearward facing hook is a triple ribbed collar. The hook is complete. At the opposite end the attachment loop is sub-rectangular in plan. See Read (2008) is no.447 on p111 for comparison.

WILT-3D5FB8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to c. AD 1500-1650. The dress hook consists of a sub-ovate plate, decorated with an openwork floral design. An integral sub-rectangular attachment loop projects from the top, a sharp hook projects from the base, curving backwards. The tag measures 35.5mm long, 20.1mm wide, and 2.4mm thick (max) It weighs 3 grams. cf. Read 2007, Class E type 3, no. 414.

BH-65A1F6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy blunt-hooked and eye dress fastener dating to the early Post Medieval period (c. AD 1550-c. 1700) - Read Class A, Type 8 (hooked clasp). The clasp is broadly oval in plan and flat, with three attachment sewing loops; one as an apex terminal, and the others either side of the broken hook. The upper surface of the oval panel has raised moulded decoration in the form of a foliate motif within a beaded boarder. The underside of the panel if flat and plain. The surfaces of the fastener have a mid-brown patina with several patches of mid-green. The object is 40.7mm long, a maximum of 21.5mm wide, 1.9mm thick and weighs 4.33 grams. As Read 2001, p. 175, no. 663. Read, B. 2001. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes, Portcullis Publishing, Somerset.

NMS-934F8F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post-medieval white-metal coated copper alloy strap fitting or dress fastener, the looped or female part of a clasp with an incomplete loop, an opposed pair of lateral three-quarter round cut-outs, a transverse groove and a bent-forward T-shaped spigot. Length 19mm. Width 17.2mm. Similar to Read 2008, nos. 703-4, early post-medieval single blunt-hooked Class E, Type 1 but lacking a heart-shaped aperture. One other example has been noted, NMS-52E682. Mid 16th - 17th century.

WMID-A55DD2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A compete copper alloy dress fastener dating to the Post Medieval period (c. AD 1500-1700). The fastener represents the eye half to the hook-and-eye type of fastener. The object has a sub-oval plate that is convex on its outer face. There are three attachment loops integral to the plate as well as the rectangular eye that would have accommodated the hook from the matching attachment. The eye is located at the wider end of the plate with the attachment loops located either side of the eye and at the opposite end of the plate. The reverse of the fastener is convex on the plate and flat around the edge. The object is undecorated and has a dark brown patina. The fastener can be classified as Class A, Type 2 (Read 2008: 168), see nos 625-7. Comparable examples recorded on the PAS database include: WMID-7A59BF; LVPL-FB6461; and WMID-D1E553. The overall dimensions are as follows: 22.51mm in length, 30.16mm in width, 6.29mm in thickness and 4.71g in weight.

NMS-258239: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Part of a post-medieval sheet copper alloy clasp, a distorted probable dress fastener, semicircular and black coated. On the front face there is at least one circle of punched dots. Two elements are attached to the underside probably with solder: a strip, with a pointed or angled end and once probably hooked, at the centre of the straight edge and projecting beyond it; a wire loop shallowly embedded near the rounded edge (one end now dislodged). No good parallel noted. Length (excluding hook) 22mm. Width 40mm. Width of loop 25mm. Perhaps 16th - 17th century.

LIN-3A0C56: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete, post-medieval lead dress fastener of Read 2008 early post-medieval Class D Type 2, the separate hook is missing, consists of a twelve-petalled multifoil within a ring of pellets. On the reverse is a squashed loop, with a socket for the hook and two stubs. Diameter 22.96 mm; Thickness: 2.54 mm; Weight: 6.04g. 16th century.

WILT-1EF9CB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-medieval copper alloy blunt-hooked and eye clasp, dating to c.1550 - 1700 AD. The fastener fits into Read Class A Type 9 (2008: 178) with four circular attachment knops and a grooved ornamental knop at the bottom resembling a scalloped shell. The eye section is sub-ovate in plan and features a human facing-bust on a field of pellets and annulets like fig. 678 in Read (2008: 178). The design is bordered by a scroll motif at the bottom, forming two knops, and at the top below the incomplete loop.The bust is moulded in relief and the facial details worn. Length 32.1mm; width 24mm; thickness 2.8mm; weight 5.72g.

PUBLIC-4924C3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy hooked tag of Post-Medieval date. It has a rectangular plate with integral rectangular sewing lug at the upper edge, and integral hook at the base. The plate has four notches along each edge and a large central rectangular boss. This has a central rectangular projection decorated with a single vertical groove with multiple diagonal grooves to each side, almost resembling a foliate motif. At the base of the plate the integral hook has a semi-circular collar with dome-shaped boss on the front face. The hook itself is D-shaped in section and curves backwards to a pointed tip. The entire object measures 28.16mm in length, 12.84mm in width, 4.42mm in thickness, and 2.98g in weight. This is a hooked tag of Post-Medieval date that finds close parallels in a number of examples published by Read (2008: nos. 294-297). These are placed by him in his Early Post-Medieval Class E Type 1 hooked tag group and dated to the Post-Medieval period, c.16th-17th centuries AD. Class: Read Class E Type 1

SWYOR-CC3FF2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy wire possible dress fastener a hook or eye fastener or clasp of probable Post Medieval date, AD 1600 - 1700. It is incomplete and is made form two strands of copper alloy wire of oval cross-section. The two pieces are twisted together, and the twisted rod is bent at one end. At the other end, one piece of wire is longer and bends to the side. Both ends are broken. It is 27.6mm long, 18mm wide and 2.2mm thick. 1.24g. The object is similar to artefacts in Read (2008) such as number 555 on page 140, and 574 on page 146. Number 580 on page 149 is also similar, but this is thought to be a Medieval brooch akin to 1338 on page 254 of Egan and Pritchard (1991), but the artefact being recorded seems more likely to be Post Medieval.

NMS-E30B8E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Eye-plate from a post-medieval copper alloy single blunt-hooked clasp of Read 2008, Class A, Type 8. The incomplete eye has been repaired with a riveted iron object, now decayed and incomplete. Counter-relief decoration is very close to that on ibid. nos. 663 and 664. Extant length 39mm. Width 22.2mm. 17th century.

WAW-331E6D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval (16th to 17th century) copper alloy wound wire fastener: The fastener is constructed from a length of wire which is oval in section. The wire is bent almost in half with the fold forming a large loop. The wire are then running side-by-side and then the terminals are curled form a smaller loop art each end. The longer arm is bent forming a fourth loop which is perpendicular to the large loop. The second terminal is flat and the two terminal loops are parallel to each other. When the wire is running side-by-side there is very fine wire coiled around to hold them together and in place. This wire is incomplete. The fastener measures 53.93mm long, 16.64mm wide across the two parallel loops, and weighs 3.94g. Similar wound wire hooks and other accessories are illustrated and discussed Read (2008, 141) and this example is similar to sharp-hooked clasps classed as an Early Post Medieval Class C Wire Single-Sharp Hooked Clasps Type 3 dating to 16th to 17th century. Read (ibid) comments that these are not often recorded from rural areas. Read, B., 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

WILT-463CDB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, dating to AD 1500-1700. The fastener consists of a lozengiform plate, with a cusped edge and an integral hook projecting from the base. The plate is decorated in low relief with a central quatrefoil within a solid lozengiform border. Each cusp on the edge contains a raised pellet. Length 27mm; width 18mm; thickness 1.4mm; weight 1.61g cf. read (2008: 107-109). Class E, type 4.

A cast copper alloy blunt hooked post medieval dress fastener. The plate is tinned and has engraved foliate decoration in the form of flanking leaves around a central stalk with a trefoil flower, all within a border of annulets. The hook has broken off. As Read (2008), 171, number 642 (but the hook rather than eye section). Mid 16th to 17th century.

SWYOR-EE6A86: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy wire dress fastener of Post Medieval date, AD 1450 - 1925. It is of Read Class A, type 1 form. It is made from a single piece of circular sectioned wire which is bent back on itself to form a hook and two circular attachment loops. The length is 15.2mm, 10.2mm wide and 9mm thick, and the weight is 0.67g. The wire is 1.3mm diameter. See Read (2008) Hooked-Clasps and Eyes, page 155, number 582 - 586. Possibly the earliest depiction of the type is in a portrait of AD 1445. A group were also found on a ship wrecked in 1656. This type of hook was used on both men and women's dress, and on uniforms, at least until the early 20th century. They even continue in use today, but usually have a synthetic coating.

WMID-96454D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy hooked tag (dress hook) of Post Medieval dating (16th Century AD). The dress hook has a hollow domed with radiating grooves, representing a scallop shell. The eye is square. Three attachment holes are present, two by the eye and one at the top of the shell. The reverse is concave. The dress hook measures 37.7 mm in length, 18.2 mm wide and 4.2 mm thick. It weighs 6.6 g. The dress hook is a dark green to brown colour, with an even surface patina. A similar example has been published as #659 in Read, 2008 (p 174), classified as Early Post Medieval single blunt hook Class A, Type 7. Read (2008, 165), mentions that these types continued in use throughout the 17th Century. Reference: Read, B. (2008) Hooked Clasps and Eyes. Portcullis Publishing, Langport.

BERK-50740B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An Early post-Medieval copper alloy dress hook dating to c. 16th - 17th century. The dress hook is a Read Class A, Type 8. The plate is oval in shape with three circular attachment knops. The lower knop has projecting rounded collar. There is a bifurcate ornamental knop at either side of the plate. The upper attachment hook is rectangular in shape. The surface of the oval plate has moulded relief decoration but due to the severity of ware it is unclear what the motif depicts. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The dress hook has a green to grey patina. It measures 37mm in length, 24.2mm in width, 3.9mm in thickness, and weighs 7.89g. Similar dress hooks can be found in Read 2008, page 175-177.

LON-BA32AC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy wound wire hooked fastener dating to the 16th century. This hooked tag is constructed from lengths of wire. Four lengths of thicker grade wire have been used to create the body of the hooked fastener; the two outer wires have been curved over to form the double ended hooks ad the two inner wires have been curled over to form two loops projecting from the opposite side to the hooks. The four lengths of wire have been fastened together with a length of thinner grade wire wrapped around the middle of the hooked fasted. This thinner wire has been hammered flat once in place. Similar wound wire hooks and other accessories are illustrated and discussed in Egan & Forsyth (1997:227). Dimensions: length: 32.99mm; width: 10.61mm; thickness:3.77mm; weight: 0.99g. Reference: Egan, G. and Forsyth, H. 1997. Wound Wire and Silver Gilt. In Gaimster, D. & Stamper, P. 1997. The Age of Transition. The Archaeology of English Culture 1400-1600. Society Medieval Archaeology Monograph 15 (Oxbow Monograph Series 98) Oxbow, Oxford.

NLM-0ECC97: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy with painted surface. A single wire hook, folded over at one end, and split into two loops at the other, brazed to a rectangular openwork plate of thickness 1mm comprising a central square bordered by 12 flat pellets; Read Class A. The plate retains traces of glossy black paint. Suggested date: Post-Medieval, 1700-1800. Length: 15.1mm, Width: 13mm, Thickness (overall): 4mm, Weight: 1.25gms.

SWYOR-27D9B4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
The hook section of a cast, copper alloy, dress fastener dating from 1600-1700. It has an oval shaped body, concave on the underside. At one end of the body is a circular fastening loop, now broken. There are two further fastening loops at the other end of the body, one on each side. Beyond this pair of loops is a short, rectangular section that would have curved back on itself to form a broad, blunt hook, but this has broken away and is also missing. The upper surface of the body carries a design of a flower with two leaves and three petals. There are three small crescents below the flower. The underside of the fastener is plain. It has a dark green patina and is 34.6mm long, 15.8mm wide and 3.9mm thick. It weighs 5.87gm. Similar fasteners are illustrated in Bailey, 2004, Buttons and Fasteners 500BC - AD1840, page 100. Also Read page 171 plate 640 Class A type 2 is similar.

GLO-B3AD21: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy 'male' tag from a pair hooked tags length 31mm, width 31mm, thickness 2mm, weight 4.55g. The tag has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular hook at one end (now truncated). Immediately behind the hook are two pierced knops with a third at the rear for attachment. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design. This artefact dates to the 16th - 17th century.

HAMP-D68FC5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A slightly corroded cast copper-alloy post-medieval dress fastener. The main body of the object is broadly heart shaped, with an integral T-shaped bar at one end and small curved hook (W.: 7.0mm) at the other. The main body is openwork with a heart-shaped aperture. The sides of the body expand from the base in pointed lateral knops. This is above small side knops at the widest part of the body. There is a transverse groove dividing the heart-shaped body from the hook below. At the other end the heart is similarly divided by a transverse groove from the bar. The T-shaped bar curves downwards through almost ninety degrees (W.: 10.2mm). The artefact is almost entirely covered in grey/green corrosion product with small patches of red-brown metal showing through. Traces of tinning survive on the upper surface. An identical fastener can be found illustrated in Read (2008, 187; ref. 703), who has classified it as Class F, Type 1 and suggests they were used with 16th-/17th-century sword belts.

WILT-E81C84: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy early post medieval blunt hooked figurative clasp dating to c AD 1540-1700. The hooked tag is almost complete but is missing an attachment loop at one end. The clasp comprises an oval scallop shell shaped with moulded decoration. The shell shaped section is convex with raised veins running out from the base of the shell towards the edges. At the top of the shell are the remnants of an attachment loop At the base of the shell, at either side are two further circular attachment loops. The base of the shell continues down in a straight line of copper sheet which is then bent to create a deep loop which is curved at the terminal. The back of the clasp is undecorated and there is a concavity at the back of the shell. The patina of the shell is mid to dark green with patches of mid brown and is overlaid by areas of verdigris. There is evidence that the clasp had a white metal coating, probably tinning. The clasp weighs 8.97g and measures 39.68mm in length, 20.25mm in width, 9.13mm in height and 2.14mm in thickness. Cf Read, B, 2008, Hooked-Clasps And Eyes, Portcullis Publishing, Langport, p174, no 656.

DUR-9377FB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early post-Medieval copper alloy hooked clasp dress fastener, c. AD 1500-1550, Read's Class E, Type 3. The front is moulded whilst the back is flat, the whole being of very thin metal. The top section of the loop is broken from the rest. The clasp has an openwork plate pierced with eight perforations of varying sizes. A chequered lozenge lies in the centre framed by a raised V. The side edges are curvilinear in outline. There is a ridged collar at the junction of the plate and the tapering hook. The hook curves forward and ends in an old break. It measures 29.21mm in length, 15.83mm at its widest point and 1.62mm in thickness; it weighs 1.4g. A published example is to be found at plate 402, Read, 2008, which describes the inner lozenge as "frequently interpreted as a pineapple or thistle but is more likely a pinecone." Similar examples on the database can be found at DOR-B38512, LVPL-DCDADA and IOW-7868DD. Ref: Read, B. "Hooked Clasps and Eyes" 2008, Portcullis Publishing. .

CORN-93B05E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Part of a cast copper alloy dress fastener, the blunt-hooked clasp dating from the Post-medieval period, from the 17th century, Read Class A, Type 2. The central section is oval in plan and convex in profile with an incised floriate design of stems with stylised flowers of annulets within a border of annulets. The stubs of three broken attachment loops remain, one at the apex oooposite the hook and one on either side of the base at the junction with the hook. The hook is rectangular in plan and slightly tapering as it curves forward and upward from the clasp. This hook would have slotted into a rectangular eye in the opposing hasp which would have had similar decoration on its upper face. Read (2008) illustrates similar dress fasteners, from Dorset and Devon, on page 169, nos.630-631, which are classified as Class A, Type 2.

BERK-9FC107: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete but worn cast copper-alloy dress fitting / hooked tag dating to the post-Medieval, c.16th century AD. The tag is formed from longitudinal rectangular panel, with engrailed side edges. At the juncture of the integrally cast hook and the main plate is a ribbed collar while at the opposite end is a horizontal bar attachment loop. The hook is complete and curved back on itself. The front of the fitting has decoration but it is too worn to discern. Read (2008) Class E Type 1.

BERK-076132: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete lead and copper alloy dress fastener (dress hook / hooked tag) of early post-medieval date. The dress hook has a large lozenge-shaped head decorated with raised pellets around a central lozenge-shape cell. On the reverse of the dress hook is a rectangular bar for attachment to clothing. At the base of the plate the copper alloy hook is inserted into a lead sleeve. The hook is complete. Similar dress hooks are illustrated in Read (2008:68). They date to the 16th century AD.

LEIC-5DD45B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Early medieval copper alloy dress fastener or possible pin head?, Length: 27 mm, width: 17 mm, thickness: 1 mm, weight: 0.80 g. The object is incomplete and fragile. It consists of the lower part of a probable triangular or oval flat plate whose lower, pointed edge houses a sub circular tapering shaft, missing its end. The left (as shown) surface of the plate shows part of a raised concentric ring pattern with a line running across it towards the base and to its lower right is a raised circle with cross and a possible further one above and right of this. There are traces of gilding in most of the recesses on this surface (picked up in upper view). Where the shaft joins the plate it is raised and rounded before tapering sharply. The objects form is similar to LEIC-413B05 and SWYOR-74A052 and its decoration may once have looked similar to HAMP-9BC0E1.

SWYOR-F164BF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy possible Post Medieval dress fastener, part of a composite wire hook and eye dating from about AD 1500 - 1700. It is a circular disc of copper alloy with no visible decoration surviving. On the reverse is attached a short length of copper alloy wire, laying along one edge of the disc. This probably once extended into a sideways projecting hook or loop for attachment. The object is 13.9mm diameter, 2.5mm thick and 1.37g. Possibly Read (2008) Class B, type 2, similar to number 598 on page 159.

NMS-9F8FEF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval white-metal coated copper alloy dress fastener of abnormal form, bearing some similarity to Read 2008 early post-medieval single blunt-hooked clasps of Class A, but without close parallel in both its sub-trapezoidal shape and its decoration, and with a blunt T-shaped hook that might be considered a toggle. Relief decoration comprises a scroll at each corner, with two at the end near the hook curled around attachment holes. Between these there is a large heart-shaped aperture and a motif that covers the rest of the surface appears to be a passant guardant leopard standing right. A third attachment hole lies in the centre of the end opposite the hook. Length 38mm. Width 26mm. 17th century.

DOR-96FBF0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress hook or fastener dating to the 16th century. The object consists of one piece of copper alloy with a curved rectangular in section hook placed vertically at the lower edge. At the upper edge of the dress fastener there is an inverted-trapezoidal lobe with a central knop at the upper edge of the main body. The body of the fastener is broadly circular in shape. The integral hook would have once attached to another fastener on a garment. The end of the hook is pointed. The decoration consists of a central pellet surrounded by a circular moulded impression, within this are six broadly circular perforations. Encircling this is a moulded relief and openwork design of thirteen oval and circular perforations spaced symetrically. The outside edge is moulded with three knops spaced equally along either side of the main body. The hook is separated from the main body by a transverse collar of two moulded grooves. The reverse of the object is flat and undecorated. The object has a dark-brown to green coloured patina across all surfaces. Date: Post Medieval - 1500 - 1600 Length: 37.47mm. Width: 18.13mm. Thickness: 1.37mm. Weight: 3.79g. Reference: Read (2008) illustrates a dress hook on page 103, No.395, which is dated to the 16th century.

NMS-EDEF6B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete late medieval to post medieval double sharp-hooked clasp of Read's 2008 Class S. Lozengiform sheet metal plate, missing one corner due to old damage. In the centre is a copper alloy rivet securing a separate sheet double-hook. The double-hook is missing both terminals. See: Read, B, 2008, p. 134, no. 546 - 549.

BUC-6B5CC3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook or hooked tag dating to the early post medieval period, Class A, type 1, dating from 16th to 17th century AD. The main body of the hooked tag is circular shaped, with a central raised boss. Around this runs a circular border of raised pellets, followed by a raised continual loop. Following this is a continual pattern of raised lines projecting out, contained within another raised border running around the edge of the tag. At the top of the tag is a rectangular loop, either side of this is a rounded attachment loop. On the opposite edge is another rounded attachment loop. The reverse is concave and undecorated. The tag has a dark green patina, and measures 36.7mm in length, 27.7mm in width, 5.00mm in thickness, and weighs 8.72g. A similar hooked tag can be seen in Read 2008, page 166, number 614.

NMS-5EC424: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Medieval to post-medieval copper alloy double-hooked dress clasp, crudely-cut oval sheet plate (29 x 25mm) riveted to the centre of a cut and wrought strip which terminates in sharp hooks (one broken at bend). Read 2008, early post-medieval double sharp-hooked clasp of Class S, Type 1.The front of the probably re-used plate has the remains of cut-down engraved decoration with possible leaves between two pairs of zig-zag lines. Length 56mm. c.1450 - c.1550.

PUBLIC-A3A237: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval Copper alloy Tudor clothes fastener. The main body of the fastener is a domed circle with an oval loop attachment at the top and a narrow broken hook at the bottom. There is a floral pattern on the surface of the object with four petals, each with three short lines and a central pellet in a circle. There is a rope-like border around the body.

WAW-72C555: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (mid 16th to 17th centuries) dress hook - hooked-clasp. A copper alloy dress fastening which is the 'hook' and not the 'eye'. The body of the dress fastening is a median segmented band with three oblique ovoids either side; engrailed sides, three rounded loop attachments with a projecting rectangular arm, which has a broken terminal and would have originally formed the hook. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress fastening is abraded and is a matte mid red/brown colour. The dress hook measures 42.71mm long and 22.02mm wide across the lower lugs. It weighs 3.8g. The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (2008:164-5) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 2 which probably dates to the early Medieval period, perhaps the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing

A cast copper alloy dress fastener. The fastener is decorated with a facing bust with long hair. within a D-shaped frame. Cf Read Early Post Medieval Class E Type 3 (especially 328 etc.)

LEIC-801EC4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Early post medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 33mm long, 21mm wide and 2mm thick. The object is in fair condition and weighs 3.8grams. The object is incomplete, sub rectangular in form and section and slighly concave.It consists of a sub oval plain area which is silvered. At one end there is a central plume like motif which is flanked by protruding circular fixing loops (one is complete). Above the plume is a rectangular protrusion which starts to curve upwards to form a hook. The object is one half of a two part hook and eye clothes fastener.

SUR-7DF7D8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval cast copper alloy dress fastener, possibly for a cloak. The fastener is decorated with a projecting lion's head. There is an attachment loop on the outer edge and on the opposite side a trapezoidal attachment bar. The object has a hollow back.

WAW-F8C1A1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval (mid 16th to 17th centuries) dress hook - hooked-clasp. A copper alloy dress fastening which is the 'hook' and not the 'eye'. The body of the dress fastening is oval in plan with a curvilinear design forming geometric shapes. The cells are in filled with a white enamel. There are two rounded loop attachments with a projecting rectangular arm at the upper edge of the body. At the lower edge of the body is a broken terminal which would have originally formed the hook. The reverse is slightly undulating due to damage and is undecorated. It measures 35.14mm long, 22.99mm wide, 2.74mm thick, and weighs 5.1g The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (2008:164-5) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, which probably dates to the early Medieval period, perhaps the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing

ESS-0B1E03: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of a male / female dress hook of post-Medieval date. The piece represents the lower terminal only, witha worn break at the top. The object comprises an elongated-S-shaped arm with discoidal terminal at the intact bottom end. Dimensions:25.0mm long, 5.4mm wide, 12.9mm diameter of disc, 7.9mm depth, weight 4.44g.

YORYM-49EDC7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook of Post-Medieval date. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 8 being ovate in plan. The main plate is an oval panel bearing a moulded relief of possible foliate and floriate within a beaded border. At one end It has two attachment knops either side of the rectangular attachment loop and the other end has one rounded attachment knop with a projecting rounded collar flanked by two knops. It also has a debased bifurcate ornamental knop either side of the oval panel. The dress hook is worn and the reverse of the object is flat and undecorated. The metal has a dark greenish-grey patina. It is 37.96mm long, 23.09mm wide, 1.94mm thick and weighs 7.11g A similar example is illustrated in Reads p.175, no.664 and is dated to the early post-medieval period.

SUR-5EA881: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A large gilded hooked plate, possibly a dress fastener. The plate is flat and has a scalloped edge and three rivet holes in projecting lobes. The projecting hook is bent back; the hook is also flat and has a rounded terminal. Punched decoration on the plate consists of spiralling arcs and lines of annulets. The size of this object argues for another use, perhaps in furniture.

SOM-DCEA74: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy hook piece from a hook and eye fastener. The fastener has a central drop-shaped (piriform) plate with an extended terminal knop at the point and the remains of the hook extending from the broad end. The terminal knop is elongated with a rounded end and three incised lines running down the length. The hook is rectangular in section but ends in an old break at the start of the bend. There are four sewing loops around the end of the plate, two at the widest point of which one is damaged but complete and the other still has casting flash in the loop, and two broken holes flanking the terminal at the pointed end. The front of the plate is decorated with a raised design surrounded by white, green and dark blue enamel. The raised design is of a facing human head with straight hair and large ears and outlines of curved drop shapes extending from the head at diagonal corners. The top of the head is closest to the hook. Above and to either side of the head are groups of three pellets. Below the chin is a line of two pellets flanked by indistinct raised lines. In the field around this design is enamel, green to either side of the head and white above and below; the different areas are marked off by the curved shapes. In the white enamel are circles of dark blue enamel and there are traces of blue enamel on one of the pellets above the head. The fastener is now 40.3mm long, 23.1mm wide and 2.9mm thick. It weighs 4.54g. Read (2008, p178) illustrates a similar fastener no.678, which is the corresponding loop part, he dates them to the 17th century. SWYOR-E62D86 and LVPL-60F412 also have a similar design and are the corrisponding loops to this hooked piece, SOM-E94651 appears to also be the same design. This group of enamelled objects are known as Stuart or Surrey enamels.

BH-6EB204: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy clothing fastening, dating from the post-Medieval period. The piece comprises a flat-sectioned plate, of truncated-oval form, with the remains of a rectangular frame extending from the flat base. A perforated drop-shaped lobe surmounts the plate, with two further such lobes projecting outwards from halfway down the right and left hand sides, respectively. The upper surface of the plate is decorated with a crudely executed flower design, comprised of a series of incised lines and punched arcs. A line of ring-and-dot punchmarks extends around the perimeter. Length: 37.7mm; width: 29.4mm; thickness: 1.8mm; weight: 4.7g. This piece represents one half of Brian Read's Class A, Type 2 'hooked-clasp and eye' fittings. It would have operated in conjunction with an opposing, hooked, half. For parallels, see Read 2008: 171, nos. 641 - 644.

SUR-4DAF06: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A 16th century cast copper alloy wound wire clothes hook. This cothes fastener is made from lengths of copper alloy wire which comprise a central rectangular wound wire body and several individual lengths which terminate in large spirals. See Read Nos. 576-577, Class I wire chatelaine blunt hooks, early post medieval Class A Type 2.

OXON-A82E4F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post-Medieval copper alloy dress hook probably dating to c. AD 1550-1700. The fastener consists of an oval plate with two perforated lugs for attachment. These lugs are close to the trapezoidal attachment loop. This fastener is broken on its outer edge. The opposite end of the plate has another circular attachment lug pierced by a circular hole. The front of the plate has chip grooved decoration The face bears central design which is unclear but lies within an oval border which itself contains about 11 bezants. The fastener is 37.1mm long, 21.6mm and weighs 6.03 grams. Similar artefacts can be seen published by Read (2008: 171, Nos. 640-3), which he classifies as his Class A, type 2, and suggests an early Post-Medieval date range although that with the cloest decoration is classified as a Class A Type 8 (Read 2008: 175, Nos. 663).

YORYM-E4411A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete, early Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener dating to c.AD 1500-1700. It is an eye-clasp section of a blunt hooked-clasp, of Read's (2008) class A, type 2. It is an elongated oval plate with a projecting rectangular bar, which is now broken. At both sides of the waist and the opposite terminal there are the remains of annular suspension loops, all of which are broken. It is undecorated on both faces. The copper alloy is worn and has a pale brown patina, mottled with green. Length: 34.3mm, width: 21.9mm, thickness: 1.8mm, weight: 3.8g.

NARC-5F3B05: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Dress Fastener of Post-medieval date (AD 1550-1700). The object is a tinned dress fastener or hooked clasp. The object is composed of a flat ovate plate with a perforated knop on each side and a third at the terminating end. The opposing end has an angular collar and from it a rectangular projection is retained which would have formed a hook, but which now terminates in an old abraded transverse break. The upper face of the plate is decorated with an incised representation of a spray of three flowers with three punched annulets, bordered by ring-and-dot motifs. The front and back surfaces are coated with white metal, which appears to be tin. The back of the plate is undecorated Length: 31.29mm, Width: 27.28mm, Thickness: 1.83mm, Weight: 5.8g Read (2008) illustrates an almost identical clasp from Devon on p.171, no.640, which is Class A, Type 2, and dated from the early Post-medieval period.

YORYM-720AA5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy dress hook of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1500 - 1650. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 8 being oval in plan. The main plate is oval with three attachment knops and two ornamental knops projecting from the outer edges. Two worn knops represent the remains of the attachment loop. The upper surface bears moulded decoration of a forward facing human mask, wearing a headdress, within a beaded border. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a dark-brown/green patina and is worn. The dress hook is 34.4mm long, 22.3mm wide, 2.1mm thick and weighs 6.2g. A similar example is illustrated in Read (2008), p.176, no.668 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Ref: Read, B. (2008). Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

YORYM-72230D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy dress hook of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1500 - 1650. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 2 being oval in plan. The main plate is ovate with three attachment knops projecting from the outer edges. The remains of an integral wide, sub-rectangular hook extends from the wider end of the plate, terminating in a worn break. The object is undecorated. The metal has a dark-brown/green patina and is worn. The dress hook is 39mm long, 27.4mm wide, 1.6mm thick and weighs 4.2g. A similar example is illustrated in Read (2008), p.170, no.637 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Ref: Read, B. (2008). Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

YORYM-7237F3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy dress hook of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1500 - 1650. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 8 being oval in plan. The main plate is oval with three attachment knops and two ornamental knops projecting from the outer edges. An integral wide, sub-rectangular hook extends from the wider end of the plate, terminating in a straight edge. The upper surface bears moulded decoration of a possible foliate or floral design within a beaded border. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a dark-brown/green patina and is worn. The dress hook is 44.8mm long, 21.3mm wide, 2.2mm thick and weighs 7g. A similar example is illustrated in Read (2008), p.175, no.663 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Ref: Read, B. (2008). Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

NMS-0599E2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Hook-piece from a copper-alloy blunt-hooked fastener of post-medieval date. It has an oval plate with relief decoration of a stylised face set within an oval made up of two swags of drapery. There are possible flowers or plant stems curling to either side. This is all set in a double ridged frame, with a broad groove between the ridges. The design is the right way up when the object is held with the hook to the right; the hook bends slightly backwards and then forwards, and is then broken (slightly worn break); it is 6mm wide at the break. There is a circular loop for attachment at either side of the base of the hook, where it leaves the plate. Midway along both long edges of the plate is a small projection, each with relief decoration forming a pair of outward-turning scrolls. At the end opposite the hook is a third circular attachmment loop, flanked by a single outward-turning scroll to either side. All of the three loops are c. 2.5mm in internal diameter. The reverse is fairly flat, but hollowed in the centre behind the head. Total length 41mm, width 23.5mm, weight 7.9g. Similar to Read (2008) no. 664, but the best parallels come from the PAS database, such as DOR-9E03F5 and SUSS-8D2522. These have a beaded line instead of a groove between the two border ridges, but are otherwise quite close.

WAW-E43CD2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: An incomplete silver gilt dress fastener which is in the form of a bust which is slighty crude and cherubic with an outstretched wing flanking the head on either side. Integral to the upper edge of the bust there are two circular perforations (the perforations have an internal diameter of 1.2mm). The lower edge of the fastener is broken, originally there would have been an integral loop here. The reverse is undecorated, flat and only has gilding visible at the edges. Dimensions: Length: 9.35mm Width: 14.15mm Thickness: 1.6mm Weight: 0.65g Discussion: From a visual examination it is apparant that the fastening is made from gilded sliver. It is a dress fastening dated to the 17th century. Similar examples have been reported as treasure and are recorded on the PAS database; ESS-F12A68 (2010 T255), ESS-205795 (2009 T502), DOR-9D6C65 (2011 T373), SOM-616C6A (2014 T505), BERK-B461DA (2015 T362), SF-4908E1 (2014 T832) and GLO-E6C434 (2011 T168)

NMS-BE9490: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval tinned copper alloy blunt-hooked dress fastener , one half of a clasp, in the form of a fleur-de-lis with three lobes pierced for attachment and two round, presumably decorative apertures. Not categorisable in Read's (2008) typology. 34 x 23.5mm. 17th century.

A Post Medieval cast copper alloy hooked tag. The body of the tag is oval with a possible floriated design within three concentric oval borders. At the upper apex there is a perforated integral knop and the lower edge has an incomplete blunt hook. Either side of the hook at the junction with the body there is a perforated integral knop totalling three. The reverse is undecorated. The surface of the tag is an abraded green/grey colour. It measures 45.83mm long, 21.93mm wide and weighs 5.7g. The tag belongs to Read's 'Blunt hook and eye clasps', Class A Type 8 (Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing) and these are dated to the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Suggested uses are not so much capes, but perhaps on satchels, saddle-bags or straps (ibid; 164).

WAW-4571A0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval cast copper alloy hooked tag. The body of the tag is oval and domed in profile, otherwise undecorated. At the upper apex there is a perforated integral knop and the lower edge has a complete blunt hook. Either side of the body, near the lower edge, there is a perforated integral knop totalling three. The reverse is undecorated and concave. The surface of the tag is abraded but has traces of a mid green patina. It measures 32.29mm long, 22.16mm wide and weighs 4.4g. The tag belongs to Read's 'Blunt hook and eye clasps', Class A Type 2 (Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing) and these are dated to the mid 16th to 17th centuries. Suggested uses are not so much capes, but perhaps on satchels, saddle-bags or straps (ibid; 164).

YORYM-911A86: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An almost complete cast copper alloy hooked tag of post-medieval date. The hooked tag is of Reads Class F, Type 1 being asymmetrical in plan. The main plate is an openwork heart-shape with a narrow rectangular collar at the pointed end from which a rectangular sectioned hook projects. The attachment end is broken and worn. The metal has a mid reddish-brown patina and is worn. The hooked tag is 21.8mm long, 17.1mm wide, 1.9mm thick and weighs 2.2g. A similar example is illustrated in Read, p.187, no.703 and is dated to the post-medieval period.

NMS-A40B20: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Male or hooked element of a post-medieval tin-coated copper alloy blunt-hooked clasp with three attachment lobes. Read 2008 Class A Type 2. The form and decoration are very close to eye-plates from East Devon (ibid., 172, no. 648) and Quidenham, Norfolk (HER 35174, NMS-1C2644). Length 37.5mm. Width 22.5mm. 17th century.

DUR-49FB12: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete lead alloy and iron dress hook dating to the early post-medieval period. The main body of the dress hook is made of lead alloy and is trefoil in shape. Surrounding each of the lobes of the trefoil are a series of pellets. The back of the dress hook is flat and has a length of lead which forms a rectangle for attachement to clothing. There is also an iron hook which is threaded through the lead and hooks back towards the mount. This is a Read Class D, Type 6 hooked clasp (Read 2008: 76) and is similar to number 252.

NMS-8BBC52: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy mount, flat and square, with traces of solder on the reverse. The front is rather coarsely engraved with a lattice of oblique lines partly within a frame, and there are four or five V-shaped notches in each side. Probably part of a Read 2008 early post-medieval Class D, Type 3 single sharp-hooked clasp. 22.5 x 21.5mm. Thickness 0.8mm. 16th century.

WMID-8BC844: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy dress hook (hooked tag or clasp), with champlevé enamel, of Early Post Medieval dating (17th Century AD). The clasp is ovoid (oval) in plan, with one attachment loop on the left side and two on the right (either side of the now flattened hook). The centre of the clasp is decorated with a median segmented band with three oblique ovoids either side. Four of the ovoids still retain some champlevé enamel, alternate white and black. The edges of the tag are engrailed. The back is plain and undecorated. The hooked clasp measures 41.68 mm in length, 22.57 mm wide and 3.65 mm thick. It weighs 5.9 grams. The hooked clasp is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decoration detail. The patina has flaked away from a couple of areas, predominately along the edges, to reveal a lighter green colour. These areas should be regularly monitored for signs of active copper corrosion appearing (a bright green powdery residue). To reduce the risk of this happening, the hooked tag should be stored in a sealed air tight, dry box, such as a Tupperware box lined with acid free tissue paper and silica gel. Similar examples have been recorded on the PAS database as LVPL-907B06, WILT-DAA923 and WILT-BA0526. A comparative example has been published as #646 in Read, 2008 (p. 177) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 2 which have three attachment knops and consistent with 17th Century AD dating. Reference: Read, B. 2008. Hooked Clasps and Eyes. Portcullis Publishing. Langport.

SUR-171C7E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy oval dress fastener with three projecting attachment loops and a rectangular slot. The fastener is decorated with a central flower and scrolls. cf. Read no. 663.

A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener with an unequal armed cross with a central pellet. The hook is missing. cf Read nos. 412-414.

SUR-16AE9D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy shield-shaped, openwork, dress fastening. Cf. Read nos. 305-310.

A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. The fastener is in the form of a tapering hollow 'box' with a D-section and a projecting hook. The fastener has diagonal grid decoration inlaid with niello. The soldered back plate is missing. Read nos. 168-171.

A Post Medieval gilded copper-alloy dress fastener with an ornate frame. Centrally is a raised rectangle containing a flower motif. Cf. Read nos. 296-297.

SUR-A849FB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork dress fastener apparently decorated with two birds perched on foliage. Cf. Read no. 461.

SUR-A8F5EA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval lead-alloy trefoil-shaped dress fastener with three domes, decorated with floral or foliate shapes. The fastener retains the stub of a copper alloy hook and has a separate loop missing from the back. Read no.251 etc.

WILT-12E8B2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-medieval single sharp-hooked clasp (Read Class E, type 3 ), dating to period c. AD 1550 - 1750. It is incomplete insofar as the hook is missing. It is decorated with a cross in foral pattern with a central pellet; at projecting ridged and ribbed collar at the juncture of the plate. The object measures 21.48mm in length and 15.67mm in max width. The thickness measures 1.71mm and the weighs is 1.53g.

LIN-27518A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy hooked tag dating to the Post Medieval period (c. AD1550-1700). The tag is oval in plan with a rectangular attachment loop at one end, two smaller rounded attachment loops on either side of the rectangular loop, and a further rounded attachment loop at the opposite end. The tag is decorated with two double-scroll knops on both of the long sides of the oval and single scroll knops on either side of the single rounded attachment loop. The face side of the tag has a raised floriate design consisting of two oval "circles" with a series of smaller circles or scrolls within. The reverse is undecorated. This dress fitting is classified as a Read (2008:175) Class A Type 8 Post Medieval hooked tag. The overall dimensions are as follows: 38mm in length, 24mm in width and 7.7g in weight.

SUR-92EAC7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork dress fastener whose hook is missing. Cf. Read nos. 402-404.

SUR-9FC092: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener in the shape of a rose. The hook is missing. Read nos. 395-397.

SUR-A0C54A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastening with stamped foliate motifs and three projecting loops. Read nos. 639-644.

SUR-A0CA27: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A plain Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastening with three projecting loops. Read nos. 635-7.

SWYOR-3D74C5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Post medieval hook-piece from a hook-and-eye type fastener dating from AD 1550 - 1700. The body of the hook is oval and convex, the front being decorated with a flower and foliate design (perhaps a fleur de lis) inclised on a stippled field. There are three integral projecting attachment loops, one at the apex and one at each side of the blunt wide hook which bends forwards. There are traces of a white metal coating. The reverse is hollow. The dress fitting is 38.6mm long, 16.7mm wide and 4.7mm thick. 6.85g. An identical example is number 630 on page 169 of Read's Hooked Clasps and Eyes (2008).

NMS-A84D17: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete cast copper alloy Post Medieval blunt hooked clasp. Oval-shaped body tapering to a blunt rectangular hook at one end. Pierced lugs on either side of the body and at the non-hooked end, but one side and the end lug are both missing through damage. The front face is decorated with a gilt floral design and the hooked end curves back towards this face. Reed Class A, type 2. Post Medieval, circa 1550-1650 AD.

BERK-0F3211: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy dress fastener of post-medieval date. The fastener consists of the oval faceplate and radial tabs; the attachment loop is broken and missing. The plate of the dress fastener is now degraded but has moulded decoration, possibly depicting a face with outstretched wings below (a cupid maybe?) or other figurative depiction surrounded by the remains of black and white enamelling. The three attachement knops, located either side of the broken loop and one at the opposing end, are all incomplete. The bifuricated knops in the centre of each side of the plate are also damaged but mostly complete. The reverse is plain and undecorated. Many similar hooked tags can be found in Read (2008:175-177) although none appear to be exact parallels. They date to the 16th or 17th century AD.

SUSS-8D2522: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval cast copper alloy eye section of a dress fastener. dating to the 17th century AD. Read Early Post Medieval Class A, Type 8. The remains of the object consist of an oval plate bearing possible foliate and floriate design with a beaded border; rounded attachment-knops, the end one with a projecting rounded collar; a debased bifurcate ornamental knop either side; the eye section is damaged with part of the end section missing. It measures 37.4mm long, 22mm wide, 1.66mm thick and weighs 6.26 grams. Cf. READ (2008) p 175, no. 664. A dress fastener, hook section of similar design recorded on data base SUSS-D15A76. .

LANCUM-F3988B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy shield-shaped figurative mount of probable Post Medieval date 1650 to 1750 AD. The mount is incomplete, missing a small section of the terminal attachment loop. There are 3 obvious loop decorations and 1 that appears to have broken off. The slightly domed nature of the looped sections would suggest these were also for holding decorative elements, rather than being used as rivet holes. The face of the mount is decorated with an heraldic design in cast relief that appears to be a swirling motif. The length is 42mm, the width is 28mm and the weight 4.42g. The object has strong similarities to NMGW-4B1E7F, ESS-04794F and NLM-3950C9.

PUBLIC-3E76F3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete early post medieval copper alloy eye-part of a hooked clasp probably dating AD1500-1650. Read 2008 Class A, Type 8 (no. 670). The object is lozenge shaped, with a knop protruding from both side apexes. The top apex forms a terminal end with an open rectangular loop to accomodate the blunt hook from the other half of the clasp. At each body side corner of the loop there is an attachment tab with a central circular hole. The lower attachment tab is missing. The front of the object has moulded relief decoartion, consisting of groups of pellets, possibly resembling flowers, and lines radiating from the centre of the design. The object has a brown, copper patina. Similaer examples can be found on the database: YORYM-873D1A, NLM-58BF76 Dimensions: length: 29.2mm; width: 22.99; thickness: 1.32mm; weight: 4.69g Reference: Read, B. 2008. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. A Classification and Catalogue of Sharp- or Blunt-Hooked Clasps and Miscellaneous Hooks, Eyes, Loops, Rings or Toggles. Portcullis Publishing, Langport, Somerset.

DENO-4BA47E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy post-medieval dress hook, dating to the 17th century (AD 1600-1700), missing most of the hook and part of a loop. The object is flat and roughly lozenge-shaped with the stump of the hook at one corner and a circular loop at each of the other corners The loop opposite the hook is incomplete. The main body of the object is decorated with a floral pattern. Overall the object measures 41.8mm long, 22.6mm wide and 1.8mm thick. It weighs 5.7g. cf. Read, B., 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Langport : Portcullis Publishing, 179 , 682.

LEIC-8BF694: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 36mm long, 22mm wide and 2mm thick with a weight of 4.33grams. The object is lozenge shaped with a rectangular cross section. The object has tinning over its surface and is decorated on one side. It has a raised solid border which contains a pattern of five foliate motifs arranged in a cruciform. Two corners have slight, possibly rectangular, projections which are now damaged. The remaining corners hold the fixing mechanism with one side having a trefoil projection with the central one housing a circular fixing hole. The opposing corner has a flat edge with two circular fixing loops sitting at each side and the remains of a rectangular loop emerging from it.

BERK-9ED5F3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy blunt-hooked dress fastener of post-medieval date (c. AD 1550-1650). Read's Class A Type 1; an exact parallel from Dorset can be found in Read 2008:165 no. 612. The dress fastener has a circular central plate decorated in moulded relief with a six-petalled flower within two concentric linear circles with alternating pellets and transverse band (ibid.). There are three attachment loops, one at the top and two either side of the complete blunt hook at the base; the hook curves forward towards the main plate.

LON-A1247D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval, 16th century, copper alloy, wound wire hook, AD.1500-1600. Formed from a piece of wire that has been bent into a loop and hook. Thinner wire has then been used to secure the loop closure. two coils of wire have then been wrapped around the arms of the loop. These coils are not secured in place but are wound so tightly around the loop that they do not move. Length: 26.16mm Width: 14.21mm Thickness: 1.3mm Weight: 1.13g

SUR-03780D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy hooked clothes fastener. The fastener has two rectilinear slots, one for attachment, and two short projections on each side. Cf. Read no. 301.

NARC-1B0AD7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress hook. cast with moulded openwork relief. An equal armed cross with four small holes in each quarter and a beaded circular edge. Rectangular attachment loop. The object has a reddish-brown patina typical of artefacts of this status and date. Read Class E, Type 3. Reference: Read, B. (2001). Hooked Clasps and Eyes. Page 99. Fig. 370.

NARC-1B1292: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post-Medieval copper alloy dress hook. Cast in one piece with moulded openwork decoration. A heart featuring small flowers that bifurcate above the hook. A rectangular tag. A reddish-brown patina. Read Class E, Type 7. Reference: Read, B. (2001). Hooked Clasps and Eyes. Page 113. Fig. 455. Similar on this database: SWYOR-062EB3.

WMID-B99961: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A incomplete, copper alloy hooked tag, Read class E, type 3, dating from the early post-medieval period, AD 1500 - 1650. The body has a central lozenge shaped moulding with a central smaller lozenge, frequently interpreted as a pineapple, thistle or pinecone. There are four openwork circular perforations on each side. At the upper end of the body an attachment loop is missing and at the base there is a narrow, transverse collar above a narrow, D section, curved hook, now slightly bent. The reverse of the tag is plain and unmarked. It has a rough, dark green patina. It is 30.77mm long and 16.45mm wide. It weighs 2.27gm.

LEIC-461D25: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy dress fastener. It consists of an oval panel bearing possible foliate and floriate relief decoration within a beaded border. At one end two projecting sewing loops sitting below a broken edge where the fastening mechanism (loop or hook) would have been housed but has been broken off. Bifurcate knop half way down on either side of the oval. At the other end, a broken straight edge where a third sewing loop has been broken off. The reverse is plain, and along with the upper surface is covered in white metal, probably tin. The object is 28mm long, 22mm wide, and 2mm thick, and weighs 5.16g. (Ref: Read no. 663 Early post-medieval Class A, Type B.)

A Post Medieval copper-alloy hooked clothes fastener with a central foliate oval panel. Cf. Read no.663.

PUBLIC-689767: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-Medieval copper-alloy hooked dress fastener (c. 1500-1700 AD). Read Class A, Type 1 or 2 (hooked clasp). This is one of two similar objects that would have been used together to join straps or clothing. The other object would have terminated with an attachment loop rather than a hook. The main body of this clasp is lozengiform with a pierced hole at one end and a hook at the opposite end. There are two similar holes at the hook end. At the centre of the front, within an oval border there is a possible floriate design. The rear face is plain. Width: 44mm; hight: 22mm; thickness: 2.15mm. Weight: 6.67g. Class: Hooked clasp

SUR-A38473: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy clothes fastener in the form of a trilobe knot with two small bosses. cf. Read no. 436-440, Early Post Medieval Class E. Type 5.

GLO-872DE4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
~~Copper alloy 'male' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a lozenge shaped plate with a large rectangular hook at one end. Immediately behind the hook are two pierced knops for attachment, both are truncated, there would be a third attachment loop at the rear but again this is truncated. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design encircled by and oval border. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

BERK-A1F57B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy dress fasterning (dress hook) of post-medieval date. The dress hook has a circular central element with a flat rectangular tab, which would have been the hook, extending from end. The opposing end of the fastening has a worn cinquefoil knop with an off-centre perforation. There are two further perforations towards the hook. These holes would have enable the fastening to be sewn to a garment to secure it in place. The opposing fastening would have had an eyelet into which the hook would have fitted. The upper side of the fastening is decorated with scrolling and floriate designs. The underside is flat, plain and undecorated. Similar dress fastenings are illustrated in Read (2010:180) - example no. 686 (also on this database as CORN-914120) is the opposing eyelet section of the fastening but it shares identical decoration to that recorded here. This style dates from c. AD 1550-1700.

LEIC-1EA5A6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy dress hook, 1500-1700. The object is oval in form and rectangular in cross section. It has an oval plate decorated with a double raised border and central foliate and scroll motif. Each side has a double scroll like projection and one end has a projecting fixing loop flanked by a small scroll. The other end has two fixing loops flanking a rectangular folded catch. The object is one of a pair forming a 'hook and eye' fastener and matches Read Class A, type 8, fig. 663-5 Length: 36 mm, width: 21 mm, weight: 6.09 g

SOM-4B04FA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener of post-medieval date. The fastener consists of a flat, oval plate with tear drop-shaped knops at one end and in the centre of each side. Each knop is perforated for attachment. At the other end of the plate there is a blunt flat hook, which has been formed by bending back a narrower, tapering section of the plate. The object has a white metal coating and is undecorated apart from two transverse incised lines just above the hook. There are two parallels in Read's 'Hooked Clasps and Eyes' (2008, nos. 636 and 637). Read categorises the type as Early post-medieval Class A, Type 2, a blunt-hooked clasp. This type would have been used with a corresponding eye piece.

SUR-60501B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy clothes fastener with its hook missing. The fastener has three projecting attachment loops, is decorated with punched foliate shapes and has a thick white metal coating. Read nos. 639-644 .

SUR-75BB31: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. The body is in the form of an heraldic rose. Cf. Read nos. 342-347.

A complete Post Medieval copper-alloy gilded trilobe dress fastener comprising three domes with filigree decoration, a back plate with a three-sided attachment bar and a separately attached hook. The fastener also has a central separately mounted sexfoil set on a round headed rivet. Cf. Read no. 261.

A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener with a punched foliate design and four attachment holes. The form is similar to Read no.679 but the decoration is common on Read nos.640-4 and 653.

SUR-05F89B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. The pentagonal body contains the initial 'T'. This fastener is not clearly paralleled in Read but is similar to Class E, Type 2.

GLO-2FF651: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular loop at one end. Either side of the plate are two pierced lugs with a third at the rear for attachment. The centre of the plate appears to be undecorated, however, ware and corrosion may be obscuring and remaining detail. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

BERK-003A24: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy large Tudor hook clasp, dating to AD1500 - 1550. The fastener is roughly oval in shape. On one edge it has a bent over hook. There is also a single circular loop on each of the three other edges. Light green patina all over.

WILT-6DC3B3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy Post Medieval one piece hooked clasp Read Class E Type 3, dating to AD 1500-1650 The central feature of the one-piece body is shallow convex, with moulded relief. The attachment loop is a sub rectangular aperture. The hook is 15mm in length and sharp. The clasp measures 33.9mm in length, 14mm in width, and 3.5mm in thickness. It weighs 1.65 grams.

BERK-70F28A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Post Medieval ovoid dress fastener with a hooked end and three attachment holes, one at the opposite end to the hook, and one on each side. The surface bears two incised elongated marks and a series of small incised circles, intended to be a foliat or floral design. Similar examples can be seen in Read's Early Post-Medieval Class A Type 2 hooked tags with floral/foliate decoration (Read, 2008: pp. 171, no. 642), of 16th to 17th century date.

BERK-9A289B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete 17th-century copper alloy oval clasp-half, probably a hook-piece but the blunt hook is now missing. The oval plate is decorated with an engraved fleur-de-lis. The top of the plate is pierced through, suggesting a modification after an original end loop broke away. On each side is a projection, also pierced. Surrounding and decorating the inner edge are small circular and semi-circular circles. Similar to Read 2008, 171, nos. 643-644.

BERK-D442BB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Medieval copper alloy hooked dress fastener dating to the period AD 1500 - 1550. Read Class E type 5, trefoil No 438 2008 (p110)

BERK-57AA4C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A slightly incomplete Post Medieval copper alloy hooked clasp, dating to the period c. AD 1485 - 1550. Similar to Read (2008) Class E, Type 3.

BERK-A7192D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Early Post Medieval copper alloy hooked clasp in one piece. In the centre a quatrefoil ( 4 petalled flower) within a border of spirals and scrolls. It has 4 rounded attachment knops and a broken larger loop at one end. Dates to the period AD 1485 to 1550. Class A, Type 9.

SUR-D58F55: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval oval copper alloy, hook ended, clothes fastening with three attachment loops and punched foliate decoration. Read nos. 640-644.

SUR-3DDDA4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork dress fastener with two opposed spirals. The fastener is very similar to Read 523 but is not precisely parallelled.

NMS-6314A7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval copper alloy dress fastener of Read 2008, Class D, Type 3, a lozengiform plate with a separate wire hook and a transverse loop embedded in a deposit of solder on the concave reverse. The convex front rises in two steps to an engraved lozenge subdivided by a saltire into four lozenges. Length (including hook) 30.8mm. Length of plate 24mm. Width 23mm. Thickness (excluding loop) 3.8mm. Internal width of loop 10.5mm. 16th century.

LIN-73DDAD: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-medieval copper-alloy dress hook, Read Class A, Type 8. It has a flat sub-oval body with a rectangular loop at one end. A loop extends to either side of the body, and also at the apex. The body is decorated with a perimeter of ringed dots, which encloses a large fleur de lis. The surface has been silvered or tinned.

WILT-9F9D22: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy cast clasp dating to the early post-medieval period, probably 16th century. Read (2008) class A, type 2. The clasp is composed by a single plate broadly oval shape with a rectangular knop on the upper part and two circular knops booth sides of the plate. A therd circular knop should be attached to the lower part but is old broken and now missing. The plate is decorated with engraved small annulets following the edges and surrounding a central palmette with three dots on top. The revers part is flat and undecorated. The object measures 30.74mm in length, 27.68mm maximum width, 1.31mm in thick and weights 4.46mm. A similar clasp is illustrated in Read (2008), p. 171, no. 641 Reference: B. Read 2008, Hooked-clasps and eyes, Portcullis Publishing.

DOR-A187F2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener. A catch piece from a set of hook and eye fasteners.The fastener comprises a circular plate with a oval hole near the centre and a large rectilinear attachment loop at the top. Opposite the loop is the stub of a smaller, broken loop through which the hook of the catchpiece would have passed. The plate is decorated with a moulded, slightly irregular, sexfoil centred around the oval hole and inside a framing ridge around the edge of the plate. The rear of the plate is undecorated Date: Post Medieval - c. 1600 - 1700 Dimensions: 30.4 mm x 17.1 mm x 4.0 ​Weight: 5.16 g

SUR-DDE314: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener with a circular body. cf Read 387 etc for similar examples.

SUR-F9B254: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of a Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener in the form of an openwork knot. cf Read nos. 436-441 for similar examples.

SUR-7627D3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post medieval copper-alloy dress fastener with a hook and three projecting attachment lugs. The fastener is decorated with a cast octafoil within a scrolling frame. It is similar to Read no. 681-685.

YORYM-B0D14B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete tin-coated-copper alloy dress hook eye of Post-Medieval date. The objects is ovate with a rectangular loop to the widest end and three attachment lobes; two to either side of the loop and one at the opposite end. The upper surface bears moulded decoration in the form of plumage extending from the upper and lower ends towards the centre. A plain band is present between the two elements. The reverse of the object is slightly concaved. The metal has a dull grey patina and is worn. The object is 16.3mm long, 12.6mm wide, 2.7mm thick and weighs 1g. This example is closest to Read's Class A, Type 2 though is much smaller than most examples. Similar examples have been recorded with the PAS, including NMS-A40B20 and NMS-1C2644.

LANCUM-30AF1D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy post medieval hooked tag with rounded attachment loop dating to c AD 1500-1600. It has a lozenge shaped plate with openwork decoration and an integrally cast rectangular suspension loop.The back of the tag is undecorated. Beneath the collar extends an integrally cast hook now broken. Similar to number 217 in Read, B, 2008, Hooked-Clasps & Eyes, Portcullis Publishing, Langport p123 no506. The length is 20mm, the width is 16mm and the weight 1.57g.

SWYOR-36015A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Post medieval hook-piece from a hook-and-eye type fastener dating from AD 1550 - 1700. It is a Read Class A Type 2 dress fastener. The body of the hook is an elongated oval and convex, the front being decorated with drapery or floral bands at each end. There are three integral projecting attachment loops, one at the apex and one at each side of the blunt wide hook which bends forwards. There are traces of a white metal coating. The reverse is hollow. The dress fitting is 39.4mm long, 24.3mm wide and 4.2mm thick. 7.6g. Compare number 648 on page 172 of Read's Hooked Clasps and Eyes (2008), which describes the decoration as being trilobate bands.

A Post Medieval copper-alloy D-sectioned hollow-backed hooked fastener with a diagonal grid decoration. The fastener is probably inlaid with niello. Cf. Ward Perkins 1940, pl. LXXVI no.9. Read 2008 early post-medieval single sharp-hooked Class C Type 3. Early 16th century.

SUR-171C5F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Medieval to Post Medieval copper-alloy diamond-shaped possible clothes fastener with a central rivet. Teh body si fromed from a flat sheet of metal. On the back is a double-ended tapering fitting. the front is decorated with a frame and three transverse lines, all in rocked tracer (zigzag). Cf Read nos 546-549 (Double sharp-hooked clasp).

SWYOR-6B6027: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress fastener of Read's class A blunt hooked type, dating from the Post-Medieval period, AD 1600 - 1700. The body is oval in shape, concave beneath and terminates at one end in a broad, integral hook, the curved end of which has broken away and is missing. On either side of the base of the hook, where it leaves the body, is a small, circular attachment loop. A third loop was present at the other end of the body, but this has also broken away and is missing. The upper side of the body carries an incised design of a single flower with two slender leaves. The tag is 33.4mm long, 15.9mm wide and 4.4mm thick. It weighs 5.09gm. Similar tags are illustrated in Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, page 169. Compare especially number 630.

WMID-17ADFE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy dress fastener or toggle of post-medieval date, circa AD 1600-1800. The toggle consists of an oval body in profile with a circular sectioned shank. Extending from one side is a figure of eight loop terminal. The toggle is undecorated. The metal has a mid-green to brown coloured patina across all surfaces. The object has many parallels recorded on the PAS database; SWYOR-5D3F15 and SWYOR-9FE646 discovered in Yorkshire suggest these objects are Post Medieval in date. The following suggestion is made by the recorder "This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period,AD 100 - 200 as seen in SWYOR-E137B1 and DENO-D53724. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffle coat, as in SF-332DF0 and SWYOR-9FE646. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts. The object measures 25.86 mm in length, 22.3 mm in width, 8.04 mm in thickness and weighs 8.2 g

YORYM-A70999: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy dress-hook eye of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1500 - 1650. The dress-hook eye is of Reads Class A, Type 8 being oval in plan with three attachment knops, two bifurcate ornamental knops and a rectangular attachment loop. The upper surface is decorated with an oval panel bearing a human facing mask wearing a headdress within a beaded border. The reverse is flat and undecorated though traces of silvering remain on the upper surface. The metal has a mid -green patina and is worn. The dress hook is 39.4mm long, 22.4mm wide, 2.1mm thick and weighs 4.6g. A similar hooked tag is illustrated in Read (2008), p.176, no.668.

PUBLIC-4F05B7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval Copper alloy Tudor clothes fastener. The main body of the fastener is a domed circular with a broken trapezoidal loop attachment at the top and a narrow broken hook at the bottom. There is a rose-like pattern on the surface of the object.

WILT-DDF8BF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete early post medieval cast copper alloy one-piece low relief moulded eye section of a hook and clasp arrangement, dating to AD c1550 - c1650. It is a sub circular plate and has three attachment knops, each drilled with a hole. It has similarities to Read Class A Type 1. There is a rectangular attachment eye and the whole of the sub circular plate is surrounded by a raised margin with an oval centrepiece, also surrounded by a raised border, within which is a raised foliate decoration of central row of three six petalled flowers, with four oval leaf like features, two each above and below the line of flowers. Above and below the oval area, but within the outer border, are further foliate forms. The three pierced knops or lugs are situated around the plate, two alongside the 'eye' with one extending below the plate on the opposite edge. The rear is undecorated. It is 33.44mm in length, 25.38mm in width, 1.86mm thick and weighs 5.34g. See Read 2008 p165 - 168 for similar types.

SUR-5BDF93: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy clothes fastener with punched foliate decoration. The fastener retains its hook. Cf Read nos. 639-644.

DEV-EB4CD9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An Early Post Medieval copper-alloy hooked tag (dress fastener) with white metal surface coating. It has a flat oval shaped plate with a transverse collar at one end. Beneath the collar extends a rectangular projection; this is the hook which would have hooked onto an rectangular apeture on another corresponding dress fastener in order to coinjoin two elements of clothing fabric together. At the top and both sides (now missing from one side) of the plate are lobes with circular sewing holes. The front face of the plate has a grooved decoration consisting of a border of punched small circles; at the centre is a floral or foliate motif in the form of a flower and stem with leaves. The flower is three-petalled or trefoil shaped in design with three circlets in a row at the centre. On each side of the stem are three leaves which unfurl outwards and terminate in circles. Dimensions: length: 38 mm; width: 24 mm; thickness: 1 mm; weight: 4.38g. Similar examples can be seen in Read's Early Post-Medieval Class A Type 2 hooked tags with floral/foliate decoration (Read, 2008: pp. 171, no. 642), of 16th to 17th century date.

SUR-6E19E3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy oval dress fastener with three projecting attachment loops, two of which are broken, and a broken rectangular loop. The fastener is stamped with foliate decoration and circles and has a white metal coating. Cf. Read 639-644.

NMS-7AE3B5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval gilded silver dress fastener. Openwork plate consisting of four circular apertures around a central heart with scrolls to either side, a narrow transverse rib forming a straight edge above the heart and two pierced circular attachment lugs projecting from the lower edge below the heart. In the centre of the upper straight side is a broken, ungilded scar where a missing element, probably a pierced lug forming the eye, has broken off. Gilding on the reverse survives only within the stamped maker's mark, R. Post-medieval eye plates are less commonly found than the dress hooks with which they were presumably used, but other broadly similar examples have been recorded on the PAS database including SWYOR-DBA47D, NMS-201722 (Norfolk HER59800), NMS-922183 (Norfolk HER45401) and HESH-F4A941. Circa 16th century. Length 13.5mm. Width 17mm. Thickness 2.5mm. Weight 2.1g.

WILT-7EB365: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete, post medieval (cAD 1600 - 1700), cast copper alloy dress hook which would have been one of a pair of items, the other being the 'eye' . It is a Class A Type 2 or 7 (Read, Hooked-Clasps and Eyes, 2008), being flat, with an oval shaped plate with two rounded knops either side of the hook, and a third extended knop at the end furthest from the hook, all with holes for attachment to the garment or strap. The end one has a projecting collar. The face of the hook (plate) has a moulded decoration of some kind but it is not possible to discern the details. The underside is without decoration. It is 30.14mm in length, 17.53mm in width and 1.90mm thick. It weighs 4.50g.

NMS-7F905C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete copper alloy mount, flat and square or lozengiform, with solder on the reverse. One corner is missing. The front is engraved with a lattice of oblique lines partly within a frame, and there are seven to nine V-shaped notches in each side. Probably part of a Read 2008 early post-medieval Class D, Type 3 single sharp-hooked clasp. Cf. NMS-8BBC52. 18.5 x 17.7mm. Thickness 1mm. 16th century.

SWYOR-A6A9A3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener, the hook piece, of Post-Medieval date, Read class A type 2, dating from AD 1550 - 1700. It has a flat, oval body, squared off at one end, with three fastening loops on the outer edge, one at the point of the oval and one in the centre of each side. Each fastening loop is pierced with a circular perforation and has a small, rounded knop on the outer edge. In the centre of the squared end is an integral, projecting blunt hook, the end of which has broken away and is missing. One face of the fastener is decorated with a punched design of a three petalled spray of flowers or fleur de lis on a cross-hatched background, surrounded by a border of small, punched annulets. The underside is plain. The tag has a dark brown patina. It is 39.7mm long, 27.9mm wide and 1.5mm thick. It weighs 4.29gm. An identical tag is illustrated in Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, page 171, number 640.

DOR-9E03F5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy cast dress fastener or clasp dating to c.1550-1650 AD. The upper face of the fastener consists of a central oval plate decorated at the centre with a possible lion's head or a face. On either side of the head are foliate scrolls which are connected by drapery under the chin and above the head. This pattern falls within three oval concentric borders that gives it the appearance of a cameo​. On the outside edge of the plate there two decorative knops, one at 12 o'clock and one at 6 o'clock. There are three attachment eyes, two either side of the rectangular loop and one at the opposing end, these eyes would have allowed the fastener to be stitched onto the item of clothing. The rectangular loop at one end would have taken the corresponding hook of another fastener on the opposite edge of the garment to bring both sides together. The reverse is flat and undecorated. A similar example can be seen: CORN-628D0B. Similar to Read p175, No 664+663, class A, Type 8 Date: Early Post Medieval Dimensions: 39.21mm x 23.91mm 1.95mm Weight: 6.71g

WMID-3BC45B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval cast copper alloy dress fastener dating to the 17th century. The object consists of a flat piece of copper alloy with a rectangular shaped piercing at the upper edge. The body of the fastener is broadly oval in plan with a circular piercing at either long edge below the rectangular piercing. A further singular circular projection is located on the lower edge. Two further small knops are located on the long edge at the centre of the object. The upper face of the fastener is decorated with an oval formed from three concentric bands in light relief. Within the oval is a foliate scrolled design. There is no further decoration on the reverse. The object has a mid-green coloured patina across all surfaces. Bailey (2004) illustrates a dress hook with a similar foliate pattern within an oval border on page 100, fig.2.43, which is dated from the 17th century. Bailey also illustrates how the fastener would have been used. The object would have originally formed part of a hasp and clasp fastener, as illustrated in Fig 2.44. The pierced lobes from this example were used to sew the set to a garment, possibly a cloak.There are similar examples on the database (CORN-530C15) discovered in Cornwall and (BH-3BCD82) discovered in Hertfordshire. The fastener measures 38.6mm in length, 20.66mm in width, 2.14mm in thickness and weighs 5.4 grams. Bailey, G., (2004) Buttons and Fasteners 500BC - AD1840. Essex, Greenlight Publishing.

WMID-3E5A30: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener dating to the 17th century. The object consists of a flat piece of copper alloy with the remains of a curved rectangular hook at the upper edge. The remains of the hook are now missing that would have once attached to another fastener through a rectangular shaped piercing. The body of the fastener is broadly triangular in plan with a circular piercing at either long edge below the upper broken hook. A further single circular projection is located on the lower pointed edge. The upper face of the fastener is decorated with a probable fleur design, although much of the detail and upper surface has been worn. The reverse is slightly concave in form. There is no further decoration on the reverse. The object has a mid-brown coloured patina across all surfaces. Bailey (2004) illustrates a dress hook with a similar fleur pattern on page 100, fig.2.42, which is dated from the 17th century. Bailey also illustrates how the fastener would have been used as part of a hasp and clasp fastener, as illustrated in Fig 2.44. The pierced lobes from this example were used to sew the set to a garment, possibly a cloak. There are similar examples on the database (SWYOR-A6A9A3) discovered in North Yorkshire and (WAW-F0CA12) discovered in Worcestershire. The fastener measures 29.45mm in length, 23.82mm in width, 2.12mm in thickness and weighs 4.3 grams. Bailey, G., (2004) Buttons and Fasteners 500BC - AD1840. Essex, Greenlight Publishing.

CORN-628D0B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy dress fastener. The upper face of the fastener consists of a central oval panel decorated at the centre with a lion's head that appears to have ears and mane. On either side of the head are foliate scrolls which are connected by drapery under the chin. This pattern falls within two oval concentric borders with a row of pellets in between, that gives it the appearance of a cameo​. There is one complete circular loop, 2 mm in diameter, and one incomplete one either side of where a rectangular eye would have existed. The two broken edges of the eye remain to show that its width would have been 10 mm. At the opposite end of the fastener to the eye there would have been another attachment loop which is now missing but the edge of the decorative scrolls that flanked it remain. These loops would have allowed the fastener to be stitched onto the item of clothing. The eye would have taken the corresponding hook of another fastener on the opposite edge of the garment to bring both sides together. Both faces of the fastener show signs of tinning. Bailey (2004) illustrates a dress hook with a similar foliate pattern within an oval border on page 100, fig.2.43, which is dated from the 17th century.

SWYOR-735AED: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete, cast copper alloy dress fastener of early post-medieval date, AD 1500 - 1700, Read class A, type 7. It has a sub-oval body tapering at one end. It is ot clear whether it is a hook piece or a catch piece as the fitting has broken off. There are the remains of three integral attachment loops, one on each side of the fitting and one in the centre of the opposite end, all now also broken. The underside of the body is concave. The upper side is convex and decorated with radiating grooves to resemble a scallop shell. The tag has a light brown patina. It is 26.6mm long, 18.4mm wide and 4.1mm thick. It weighs 4.11gm. A similar tag is illustrated in Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, page 174, number 656. See also SOM-2DD045.

SUSS-9FEA45: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval, cast copper alloy arm-fragment from a Victorian skirt lifter, AD.1500-1750. It consists of a short spoon/scoop with a cast cylindircal shank that terminates in a bifurcated rounded fork. There is a shallow groove in the rear side of the shank 38.55mm up from the scoop terminal. The scoop is rounded and shallow. Length: 84.6mm Thickness of shank: 3.48mm Width of Scoop: 7.02mm Weight: 6.48g Similar objects have been recorded on The Portable Antiquities Scheme database. For example, see finds: BH-E61D84; CORN-C851A6; DUR-B0C806; IOW-36F656; IOW-650564;1OW-ED8F04; KENT-F94EBD; LIN-C18E94; LON-B74D20; NARC-67BE76; WMID-7F1F63and YORYM-O271BO.

NLM-F530AB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy clasp. Cast hook element from a two-part hook and eye clasp, Read Early Post-Medieval Class A Type 2. A cast oval plate with three attachment lugs, two opposed on the sides and one at the narrower end, each with a drilled fixing hole of diameter 2.2mm, and with a pointed terminal. A blunt U-shaped tab projects forward of the plate to serve as the hook part of the clasp. Suggested date: Post-Medieval, 1550-1650. Length: 36.9mm, Width: 24.1mm, Thickness (plate): 1.6mm, Weight: 4.87gms

HAMP-493045: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy and enamel early post-medieval (1650-1700) dress hook 'eye section' of Read's Class A, Type 2. The hook consists of an ovoid plate (decorated with moulded-relief and champlevé enamel), a rectangular loop at one end (beyond the ribbed collar) and three attachment knops (two just below to either side and one opposite the rectangular loop). The decoration is in the form of two pairs of sub-ovals, one pair slightly larger (at the centre) than the other (beneath the rectangular loop). Each oval has a central raised copper alloy area while the cell around is filled with black enamel. Between the four ovals are two back-to-back triangles filled with a light blue enamel. A light blue enamel lozenge fills the area below the larger pair of ovals. Below this to either side is a sub-circular area filled with white enamel while below this is small triangle of black enamel. The remaining two areas, which extend to the outside edge, are triangular in shape and filled with white enamel. The reverse of the dress hook is flat and undecorated. A very similar dress hook is published in Read (2008, 99) no. 649 and is also recoded on this database as SOMDOR-D79D21. Read suggests the decoration possibly depicts a winged insect. The object measures 39.2mm in length, 22.6mm in max.width (from knop to knop; the plate has a max.width of 17.7mm) and a thickness of 2.2mm. It weighs 5.12g. Many similar fasteners with ovoid plates and three loops have been recorded on this database, although those with enamelled decoration (e.g. SOMDOR-D79D21 as mentioned above and HAMP-8CC7D6) are in a minority. The presence of enamelling on such dress accessories perhaps suggests a date later in the 17th century. Other contemporary enamelled fasteners, including buttons, come under the umbrella term 'Stuart enamels' and seem to display a limited palette of enamels - mainly whites, blues and greens.

DENO-B2089D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener or clasp, dating to the post-medieval period (AD 1600-1700). The upper face features possible foliate decoration within three concentric oval borders. On the outside edge of the plate are two decorative knops, one on either side. There are three attachment eyes, two either side of the incomplete rectangular loop and one at the opposing end. The end attachment eye is collared. The rectangular loop at one end would have taken the corresponding hook of another fastener on the opposite edge of the garment to bring both sides together. The reverse is flat and undecorated. Brown-green patina. Similar to no. 663-664, Class A, Type 8 in Read, 2008, 175. Dimensions: 36.9 mm x 21.1 mm x 1.6 mm. It weighs

DENO-B3538A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener or clasp, dating to the post-medieval period (AD c.1600-c.1700). The decoration on the upper face features a possible foliate within a plain border. On the outer face is a beaded border that encompasses the upper face. On one of the long edges of the plate lies a single decorative knop, the knop opposite is missing. There are three attachment eyes, two either side of the rectangular loop and one at the opposing end. The rectangular loop at one end would have taken the corresponding hook of another fastener on the opposite edge of the garment to bring both sides together. The reverve is flat and undecorated. Brown-green patina. Similar to no. 663-664, Class A, Type 8 in Read, 2008, 175. Dimensions: 37mm Long, 20mm Wide, 1.7mm Thick.

SUR-482F3A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval copper-alloy hooked dress fastening with a circular body, possibly in the shape of a rose. The fastener belongs to Read's Early Post Medieval Class E, Type 3, cf no. 350.

BERK-82CD73: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy dress fastener of post-medieval date. The dress fastener, or hooked tag, is of Read's (2008:101) Class E Type 3, having a sub-rectangular attachment loop above a circular, openwork central body. Below this the complete hook extends and curves round to the rear of the object, which is plain and undecorated. Read (2008:101) no. 384 is an exact comparision for this object. It dates from c. AD 1500-1550.

LEIC-298671: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 34mm long, 18mm wide and 4mm thick with a weight of 4.71grams. The object is oval in form and is decorated with a series of incised lines creating a scallop shell effect. This is slightly cancave and hollow underneath. At the upper edge it has two tapering projections forming a V shape terminal and on each side under this is a circular fixing loop. Theres are traces of a third broken loop at the far end, this would have formed the 'eye' part of a two part dress fastener with a duplicate mount having a hooked end.

BERK-13396B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy hook section of a two-part hook-and-eye clasp for fastening clothes c. 1500-1700 AD. The hook takes the form of a 'fly shape' in plan, with folded back wings and enlarged head at the hook end. It has a single central fixing hole at the rear and there is some evidence of enamel decoration to the centre of the device with red staining. It is also possible that this 'marking', is the remnants of a second fixing hole with the remains of a stud/rivet in place. The date is speculative and this hook might be from either side of the assessed date line. The surface is now corroded with ferrous staining and some verdigris.

SUR-2AA793: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy circular openwork clothes fastener with its hook missing. cf. Read nos. 370-372.

SUR-2E5C20: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener with a loop terminal on its upper end and with a broken hook. The worn decoration is possibly a facing head within a frame of symmetrical scrolls. Read's Early Post Medieval Class H, pp 119-121.

DEV-A7EF31: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy oval clothing fastener with four attachment apertures. The face of the fastener features what appears to be a winged creature surrounded by a twisted ropework decoration. There are three small circular apetures or sewing holes for attachment; one at one end and two at each side of the other end. The fourth apeture is rectangular in form; a clasp or hook would have hooked into the apeture to bring two parts of clothing together and hold them fast (in the same way a modern hook and eye works).

BERK-0E7D74: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy object probably used as a dress fastener. The object has a circular body (20.42mm diameter), decorated with annulets both around the outer edge and in a cross in the centre; there are three rivet or attachment holes drilled from the plain reverse through to the front. From the circular body projects a palno-convex stem or shank which terminates in larger circular rivet or attachment loop. It would appear that this object is one half of a hook and eye catch dress fastener; the circular body being sewn to the garment while the loop would have been hooked by a hooked tag/clasp also sewn to the garment, possibly a shirt / jacket or cloak. Although no comparison could be found in the usual literature, it is suggested that this object dates from the medieval to post-medieval period (c. 1250-1650). An extensive search of the database has not revealed any similar objects under the obvious headings.

SWYOR-C16C95: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress fastener, perhaps part of a cloak fastening, probably dating from the early post medieval period, AD1500-1650. It consists of a loop of copper alloy wire of circular section, one end of which extends to become the shaft and curved hook of the fastener. At the other end of the loop, the wire is extended into a shorter section: this is bound to the shaft with five turns of thinner gauge wire in order to prevent the loop from springing open. Traces of some sort of white metal coating remain on the fastener; elsewhere it displays a dark brown patina. It is 28mm long, 15mm wide and 7.9mm thick. It weighs 1.83gm.

SWYOR-8921B5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy terminal from a dress accessory of some sort (probably) which is Post Medieval in date. It is made of thin copper alloy and is triangular in shape and rectangular in section. It is of hollow construction, with a circular hole in the apex. The reverse is plain, but the front is decorated with scrolls and a trilobed terminal which is decorated with small punched circles. Much of the gilding on the front and back survives. At the base of the triangle, the front steps up, getting suddenly thicker. It has a length of 17.09mm, width 16.61mm, thickness 3.16mm, weight 1.99g. The object would seem to be a terminal from a larger object, perhaps a fan or a make-up brush. It may have been soldered to the rest of the object at the base where there is a small patch of white metal. It could also have had a thread or pin projecting though the hole at the apex. The style of decoration is reminiscent of 17th and 18th century buttons, and a similar date is suggested.

NCL-46DE61: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy possible strap union of Post-Medieval date, 16th-17th century. The object is drop-shaped in plan with a flattened bottom, and three projecting circular tabs with circular perforations placed on the tip and along each curved edge. The flattened edge may be an abbraded break. The surface is decorated with punched and incised decoration. A punched ring and dot borders the edges of the object, with inward pointing chevrons emerging from the flat side and the tip. Between the chevron points the punch has been used to creat a small head and face. The reverse is undecorated. The metal has a high tin content. It's function is uncertain.

CPAT-2D6C32: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
This is the loop section of a two part cast copper alloy post medieval dress fastener circa 1600-1700. The fastener is broadly diamond shaped with an integral oblong loop at one end and five pierced attachment holes around the perimeter. The two fixing holes on the narrow sides are broken away. The front of the plate is decorated with a floriate pattern within a raised border ridge, the back is plain. The surface has a pale mottled green patina.

WAW-4CE1B6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is the ‘eye’ and not the ‘hook’. The body of the dress fastening is a moulded sub-lozenge in plan with an incomplete rectangular loop along the upper edge. At the lower tip and at either side there are is an integral lug with circular perforations. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress fastening is abraded. The dress hook measures 34.55mm long and 19.78mm wide across the body. It weighs 3.4g. The dress fastening probably dates to the 17th to early 18th century.

LEIC-726102: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval dress fastener 15mm long, 15mm wide and 2mm thick. The object is in good condition and weighs 0.67grams. The object is semi-circular in form with three small circular attachment loops around its outer edge. It is decorated with a large triangular motif formed of twisted wire with a floral motif in another triangle in its centre. Twisted wire also decorates the objects edge, which has four rounded protrusions with the loops sitting between. On the object's flat edge is a larger circular catch which has been soldered onto the back of the object. The object is probably a dress fastener and is probably post medieval, although no close parallels have been found. TREASURE

GLO-9436B5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags length 37mm, width 21mm, thickness 2mm, weight 4.83g. The tag has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular loop at one end. Either side of the plate are two pierced lugs with a third at the rear for attachment. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design. This artefact dates to the 16th - 17th century.

SUSS-A59665: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy dress hook of Post Medieval date, c. mid-16th to 17th century AD. Read Class A, Type 8. The dress hook consists of an oval main plate decorated with a moulded relief of intertwining foliate and floriate design within a beaded oval border. At one end the dress hook would have had two attachment loops either side of the rectangular attachment loop; only one remains. The other end has one circular attachment loop with a projecting rounded collar flanked by two knops. It also has a debased bifurcate ornamental knop either side of the oval panel. The reverse of the object is flat and undecorated. It measures 33.4 mm long, 22 mm wide (at central knops), 1.9 mm thick and weighs 5.1 grams. Similar examples are illustrated in Read 2008, p175, nos. 663-664, which are dated to the early Post Medieval period.

GLO-37D374: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular loop at one end (now truncated). Either side of the plate are two pierced lugs with a third at the rear for attachment, this is truncated. The centre of the plate is decorated with a foliate design. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

LIN-A53C48: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy asymmetrical dress hook of Post-Medieval date. It is openwork and comprises a heart-shaped body with projecting sides. A T-shaped rearward hook extends from the top. There are similar examples recorded by Read (Read, 2008, p. 187, no. 703-704).

NMS-1E42D9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval composite hooked dress fastener, domed stud (diam. 12.5mm) with narrow sheet backplate held on the reverse by integral rivet, plate with opposed notches before perforated terminal forming the eyelet, the other end bent-over to form a hook. Length 41mm. Probably 16th-17th century.

A heavily worn and incomplete Early Post-Medieval eye from a hooked clasp dating to c.17th century. Description: The eye is formed from a sub-pentagonal main plate, with a collared folliate terminal/attachment knop at the pointed end. at the opposite end is a rectangular eye for a blunt hook, majority of the eyeframe is broken and now missing. The entire object is very worn and relief decoration just visible on the upper face is that of flower with four long petals and intermediate petals between them. There is three piercings for its attachment one at the atachment terminal and two flank the rectangular eye. Measurements: 31.49mm long, 20.35mm wide, 1.79mm thick and 4.23g in weight.

LIN-BC394C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete, iron medieval to post-medieval dress fastener dating to the 13th-16th centuries AD. Double hook with curled terminals and a central lozenge sheet which shows iron corrosion. No decoration is visible. This item resembles a hooked attachment for spur leathers - for parallel see Read 2001 p.60 no. 503 and Ellis 2004 p. 148-149, fig. 106 no. 365-371 which are dated to the c.13th-16th century. Length: 29.26 mm; Width (lozenge plate): 18.23 mm; Thickness: 8.52 mm; Weight: 4.36g Ellis, B. M. A Spurs and spur fittings in Clark, J. ed., 2004. The medieval horse and its equipment, c. 1150-c. 1450 (Vol. 5). Boydell Press, p.124-157. Read, B. and Read, P., 2001. Metal Artefacts of Antiquity: A Catalogue of Small Finds from Specific Areas of the United Kingdom. Volume One. Portcullis Publishing.

LON-587021: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy wire-work hook dating from the 16th century. The hook is constructed from five lengths of wire bound together in the centre by finer gauge wire. The ends of four wire lengths are decoratively splayed and then coiled. The two outer wire-lengths on the opposing ends are also splayed and coiled and the central three stands are bent over and flattened to form a hook. Two of the ends are curled over to form loops and the third is cut and fed through the other two loops to secure it. The shape of the artefact is slightly distorted. A similar hook was described as a belt attachment for a chatelaine and dated to the 16th century (Egan & Forsyth 1997:227). The published example is similar in construction and form but instead of coils at the base there are loops two lengths of chain are attached for the chatelaine. See also A similar dating is given by an example from Lincoln (Egan in Mann 2008, 10-11; fig. 6/11). A similar dress fastener on the database is LON-7E5A24 and LON-794E32. Reference: Egan, G. and Forsyth, H. 1997. Wound Wire and Silver Gilt. In Gaimster, D. & Stamper, P. 1997. The Age of Transition. The Archaeology of English Culture 1400-1600. Society Medieval Archaeology Monograph 15 (Oxbow Monograph Series 98) Oxbow, Oxford

DEV-8DB122: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete gilded copper alloy dress hook dating to the early post medieval period, c. AD 1500-1560. The terminal of the hook is broken, but the main body of the fastener and the attachment loop survive in good condition, with gilding surviving on the upper surface in protected areas. The object is triangular in shape, although the three angles of the triangle are rounded. It is decorated with a floral motif, with a central circle with a smaller cog-like circle with rectilinear knops and a central pellet at its heart, possibly imitating the central stamens of a flower. This is surrounded by three large petals, with multiple cast lines splayed across each petal. Between them is a small pellet. The impression is of a poppy or similarly veined flower with elaborate centre. An example of Read's Class D Type 4 (triangular). Measurements: 21.3mm length, 16.8mm width, 4.7mm thickness, weight 5.05g

SWYOR-090FC4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval copper alloy wire blunt hooked clasp of Read's Class A, Type 1, dating from AD 1500 - 1900. The clasp is made from a single piece of heavy gauge wire, which has been bent back on itself to form a hook and has its ends curled into a pair of flanking attachment loops. It has a dark green patina. This form was used until modern times, but the patination suggests an earlier date. Compare with SUR-3488DA and Read (2008) page 155 - 156. Length: 28.34 mm Width: 13.16 mm Thickness: 8.54 mm Weight: 2.48 g

DEV-8261B6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably a cufflink or less likely a toggle, dating to c. AD 1750-1900. The object is formed of a round circular stud, which rises into a thick cylindrical stalk, upon which is placed a flattened drop-shaped plate. This plate is faceted on its upper surface, giving the appearance of a central spine. It is a dark brown patina, not the green one would associate with Roman finds from this area. This patina, combined with its streamlined and distinct apperance, suggests its date as post medieval, as most likely a small cufflink akin to SWYOR-3EF58 or NLM-946C6C. Measurements: 15.1mm length, 14.1mm width,weight 4.67g.

SWYOR-D6A070: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy catch plate from a hook and eye dress fastener, dating from AD 1500-1700. The body is oval in shape. At one end is a knop which is damaged, but would have been pierced for attaching to the clothing. There are two further pierced knops for attachment at the opposite end of the body, one on each side. The rectangular catch loop is complete. The front of the plate is decorated with three stylised feathers or a fleur de lis and has a border of punched annulets. There are also traces of silvering or a white metal coating. Measurements; length 31.7mm, width 26.3mm, thickness 1.7mm and weight 4.46g. There are many similar examples on the database including SWYOR-E47D07, WAW-4CE1B6 and HAMP-CB77F4. There is also an example in Read (2008) page 171 number 641, Class A type 2.

NMGW-BA8B6F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy double sharp-hooked clasp (dress hook) of early Medieval date (c. 8th to early 8th century AD). The object consists of a central bar and two curved hooks. The central bar is sub-rectangular in plan and profile measuring 22.5mm long, 7.8mm wide and 4mm thick. The bar is neatly perforated in the centre (3.4mm internal diameter) which may have been used for a suspension chain or cord. Transverse incised lines frame the perforation on both sides. The bar is decorated with diagonal incised lines on both sides and both edges. The bar gently tapers towards incurving hooks on either side. These objects are sometimes referred to as shroud hooks, or may have been used as harbricks (havetters or shear-board hooks, which were implements used to fix cloth during the sharing of the nap). A discussion can be read in Hinton 1996: 47-8. The object is a dark green patina and has an overall length of 46.9mm, max width (from bar to hook end) of 19.8mm and weighs 6.85g An example with a similar design on the bar is recorded in the PAS database: NMS-EA88B4. Similar examples include WMID-C5A433, PUBLIC-B88D19, LIN-02B439. Read 2008, 40-1, early medieval Class M, Type 1.

BERK-C6A5F0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A very worn and incomplete cast copper alloy dress fastener (hooked tag) dating to the post-medieval epriod. The hooked tag is of Read's (2008) Class E Type 3 - having a sub-circular body depiciting a human bust, possibly of classical design, within a rounded frame. The attachment loop is broken and missing and at the opposing end the hook is incomplete. All elements of this hooked tag are very worn. For comparison see Read (2008) p92-94.

WMID-1A332F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook (blunt hooked eye), of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1600 - AD 1700). Around 75% of the dress hook is present, with the attachment loops and the eye being incomplete. The hooked tag is ovoid (oval) in plan, with one attachment loop on the left side and two on the right to either side of the rectangular eye section. The centre of the tag is decorated with an oval panel bearing a possible foliate and floral design within a beaded border. The attachment loops are rounded. Traces of a white metal coating are present on the surface. The reverse is undecorated. The hooked clasp measures 33.4 mm in length, 22.6 mm wide and 2.0 mm thick. It weighs 3.8 grams. The hooked clasp is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decorational detail. A comparative example has been published as #641 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 8 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating.

DOR-58FA5C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy hooked clasp. A single sharp-hooked clasp. It comprises a trapeziodal loop at the top of a solid, circular plate with a long tapering hook extending from the lower edge. The hook has a trapeziodal cross section and is curved backwards.It terminates in a sharp point. The circular plate is decorated with a moulded five petalled double rose. The back of the plate is hollowed, the front is convex. Date: Early Post Medieval c. 1500 - 1650 Dimensions: 34.99 mm x 14.55 mm x 3.11 mm Weight: 2.82 g Similar examples can be seen in Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, page 95, nos. 342 - 347. Read Class E, type 3

WILT-C83437: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Part of a Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, of Read's (2008) Class a type 10, dating to c. 1600-1700. The fastener consists of a lozengiform plate with slightly concave sides, with pairs of opposed scrolled volutes projecting from the two angles on the lateral sides. A rectangular loop projects from one longitudinal edge, with the juncture with the plate flanked by sewing loops. A third sewing loop projects from between a further pair of volutes (although one is lost) at the other longitudinal end. The front of the plate is decorated with a floral motif, cast in low relief. Length: 38.4mm, Width: 23.1mm, Thickness: 2.2mm, Weight: 6.00g. cf. Read (2008: 179).

WILT-AA13E9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval copper alloy dress hook, probably dating to AD 1500-1700. The dress hook is badly worn, but consists of a sub-rectangualr plate which tapers at one end into a truncated hook. A preseumed sewing loop at the attachment end has been lost. The plate has a cusped edge and moulded openwork decoration, although the details are unclear. Length 26.2mm; Width 14.2mm; Thickness 1.3mm; weight 1.55g.

BERK-C78B55: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper-alloy dress fastener of Post-Medieval date. The fastener is a cast, sub-lozenge, one-piece with a moulded relief. The plate is decorated with a four petaled flower with sepals bordered by two addorsed spirals. There is a transverse segmented band under the rectangular attachment loop with a circular, perforated attachment knop at either end. There is a third, similar attachment knop on the opposite terminal. There is a bifurcated ornamental, scrollwork knop at either side of the plate.

OXON-3A01FE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy dress fastener (dress hook / hooked tag) dating to the early post-medieval period. The fastener is broadly triangular in plan with four projecting knops, two down each long edge. There is an incomplete rectangular attachment loop at the top of the fastener, and a rounded, blunted 'hook' at the opposing end. The front surface of the fastener is decorated with moulded relief in the form of a robed human, front facing bust and upper torso in a field of pellets and annulets. There is the remains of a white metal coating evident. The reverse of the fastener is plain and undecorated. Read's (2008:178) Class A Type 9 (see figure 678),dating from c. AD 1550-1650.

HAMP-F7209A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early post-medieval (1500-1700) copper-alloy dress hook of Read Class A, Type 2 with three attachment knops (hooked section). The plate is flat and 2.1mm thick. It depicts a central expanding stem, and has a spray of three flowers surrounded by ring-and-dot decoration flanking the outside edge. In total, the hooked tag measures 43.1mm in length, 30.3mm wide and weighs 9.54g. Similar to HAMP-70E230. Cf. Read 639-44.

OXON-53F5CB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy, copper alloy dress fastener whose form has been suggested by Read (2008: 104) to date to the early Post-Medieval Period c. 1500 - 1600 AD. The object is composed of a rectangular tag attachment loop at the top of a flat broadly oval plate. This plate has three projecting knops, two placed on either side of the plate aproximately one third of the way down the length of the plate and another at the opposite apex of the plate from the loop. Each knop is D-shaped with a slight pointed projection extending from its apex and is pierced by a circular (c.2mm diameter) hole. The plate has shallow incised decoration on its upper surface that defines a floral design made of a central stalk, extending from the loop flanked by floral leaves and topped by a 5 knopped flower. The reverse is flat and plain. The dress fastener has a dark brown sometimes green patina. The object is 40.9mm long, 30mm wide, 1.9mm thick and weighs 5.37 grams. The object is a Read class A type 2. Similar examples are illustrated by Read (2008: 171, particularly No. 642) and are also included on the PAS database such as SWYOR-D6A070, PAS-B9606C and OXON-D.16212

KENT-3A1B94: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplate cast copper-alloy hooked clasp of post-medieval date (1500-1625). Description: The object has a circular plate which is domed to create a central boss. At the centre of the boss is a moulded facing human mask in relief. This is surrounded by a double corded border. The object has a a trapezoid eye and it missing its hook from the oppoite end which has broken off at the base. The object has a light green patina with red-brown patches on the parts in highest relief. Measurements: 21.57mm long, 18.03mm wide and 2.7g in weight. Discussion: An illustrated parallel can be seen in Read (2008, p.92, no. 322).

HAMP-DDC455: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment probably from the copper alloy arm of a Victorian "skirt lifter" dating from 1800 - 1900. The head is globular, 14mm diameter and appears undecorated. The shaft has a circular cross section of 4.5mm diameter and is bent, and 78mm in length. It terminates in the broken loop of the hinge pivot.

LEIC-88E04F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post-Medieval copper-alloy dress hook, dating to AD 1500 - 1600. The dress hook is of Read (2008) Class A, type 2. The objects main body consists of an undecorated oval plate , at the top is a rectangular loop with rectangular hole, below sits a slightly wider rectangular collar. At each side is a circular lug with small projecting pellet, both of these have a small circular hole. The bottom attachment terminates in an old break, but the remains of a rounded hole can be seen, indicating that the lower end also terminated in a circular loop. The rear of the dress hook is also undecorated. Length: 32.2 mm Width: 28.2 mm Weight: 4 g The object is a Read class A type 2. Similar examples are illustrated by Read (2008) Hooked clasps and eyes, p 170, No. 635

SUR-716E0E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy cast eye section from a Post Medieval clasp of Read's Class A, Type 7. The object is convex, with moulded relief decoration of radial lines in the manner of a scallop shell. There are three attachment loops; one at the end and two flanking the eye loop, which is trapezoidal.

YORYM-C17ECB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy dress hook of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1500 - 1650. The dress hook is of Reads Class A, Type 1 being circular in plan with three attachment knops. The main plate has moulded relief and openwork decoration. The decoration comprises seven pellets forming a stylised six-petalled flower at the centre, set within two concentric linear circles with alternating pellets and transverse bands. Three rounded attachment loops project from the outer edge of the frame; two to either side of the integral rectangular eye and one to the opposite side. The reverse of the object is flat and undecorated. The metal has a mid-grey/green patina and is worn. The dress hook is 34.4mm long, 23.8mm wide, 1.8mm thick and weighs 5.1g. A similar example is illustrated in Read, p.165, no.612 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Ref: Read, B. (2008). Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

LON-C2B6E3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy wound wire hooked fastener dating to the 16th century. This hooked tag is constructed from lengths of wire. one length of thicker grade wire has been shaped to from the hook at each end. A thinner grade wire has been wrapped around the body of the hooks to hold their shape. This thinner wire has been hammered flat once in place. This thinner wire has also been used to form a loop at each end. Similar wound wire hooks and other accessories are illustrated and discussed in Egan & Forsyth (1997:227). Dimensions: length: 35.19mm; width: 11.90mm; thickness: 5.41mm; weight: 1.47g. Reference: Egan, G. and Forsyth, H. 1997. Wound Wire and Silver Gilt. In Gaimster, D. & Stamper, P. 1997. The Age of Transition. The Archaeology of English Culture 1400-1600. Society Medieval Archaeology Monograph 15 (Oxbow Monograph Series 98) Oxbow, Oxford.

OXON-D16212: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy dress fastener, dating from the early post-medieval period, C. 1550 - 1700 AD. The flat oval body has three pierced attachment lugs, one on each side of the oval and the third, at the top. The base of the oval has a flat, broad hook, turned back to the decorated side of the oval. The design appears to be in part cast, and then engraved/punched with cross hatch within the spray of five leaves, in the style of a Romanesque acanthus leaf. The edge is further decorated by a border of small annulets. The reverse is plain, and the surface has a mottled and pitted green patina.

KENT-E878A1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete and heavily worn Post Medieval cast pewter or high tin/lead copper-alloy dress hook c.AD1550-1700. Description: Class A, type 2 dress hook. The main section has a floral design which has pellets in the field, the dots also appear on the leaves and stem of the flower. The hook has been damaged, likely in antiquity, with the end of the blunt hook missing. There are three rivet holes placed either side of the main plate near the hook end and one at the back end. The reverse is flat and undecorated; the hook is a mid grey colour. Dimensions: Length 39.45mm, width 26.99mm, thickness 2.9mm (including blunt hook projection, 1.71mm without) and weight 4.68g. Discussion: Read (2008: 170-171) illustrates a number of similar examples nos. 639-644, which are dated from the mid 16th to 17th century.

DEV-3E12CA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete gilded copper alloy dress fastener from the post medieval period, dating from AD 1600-1700. The object is designed around a central moulded six petalled floral motif, below which are a further three lobes. Each of the six petals and three lobes was originally void, although the upper right two petals and lower right lobe are now filled in with debris. The voids are marked out with moulded linear decoration that follows each line, and the centre of the flower is also emphasised with the same technique. It contains two circles, the smaller of which contains a further floral design, this time with five broad lobes instead of petals. At the very centre is a single raised circle. There is further decoration between the petals and the lower three lobes, which are are marked out with a lozenge shape containing a circle. The object has a circular attachment loop above the main flower, and the remains of an additional sewing loop adjacent to it on the right hand side. The hook is missing. An example of Read Class A Type 2. It is 21.6 mm long and 17.4 mm wide, 3.8 mm thick and weighs 3.13g.

LANCUM-FA5B79: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper-alloy and white-metal coated blunt-hook dress fastener of post-medieval to Modern date (c. AD 1500 - 1800). Read Class A, Type 1. The object consists of a single copper-alloy wire that has been bent in half and then bent in half again to form a clasp. The two ends of the wire fork and spiral back on themselves in a decorative flourish. Patches of shiny white-metal coating still remain; otherwise, the object has a mottled dark brown and green patina. It is 20.40mm in length, 13.51mm in width and 1.17mm in thickness. It weighs 2.12g. See WREX-2EC294 and BERK-4A4C82 for similar examples recorded on the database.

SOM-FD1C67: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to c. AD 1550-1700. The fastener consists of an oval plate with three perforated lugs for attachment. Two of these lugs are at its base, flanking an rectangular hook section projecting 9.0mm from the base of the fastener which has been broken at the turn of the hook. The final lug is placed at the opposite end, expanding from a slightly flanged collar. Additionally, expanding from the centre of either side of the fastener are two bifurcating scrolled knops. The front of the plate is decorated, with a foliate and foloriate within a double impressed oval border all cast in low relief. The reverse of the fastener is plain. The fastener is 44.2mm long, 22.1mm wide, 1.6mm thick and weighs 5.25 grams. Similar artefacts can be seen published by Read (2008: 175-177, especially no. 663 which was found in Dorset), which he classifies as his Class A, type 8, and suggests an early Post-Medieval date range.

SUR-4CD21D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy eye section from a post medieval dress fastener. The plate is tinned and has engraved foliate decoration in the form of flanking leaves around a central stalk with a trefoil flower, all within a border of annulets. One of the three fixing loops has broken off. Mid 16th to 17th century.

SWYOR-1DEB94: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy artefact, probably a Post Medieval dress fastener or toggle dating from about AD 1600 - 1800. The date and function of objects of this form are debated, it being either a Late Iron Age or Roman cosmetic pestle, or a Post Medieval clothing fastener toggle. It consists of a rounded body in the shape of a pointed oval, circular in section, from one side of which extends a short, sub-rectangular sectioned shaft ending in a pair of rings positioned side by side. The fastener has a patchy green patina. It is 25.6mm long, 18.7mm wide and 6.8mm thick. It weighs 5.53gm. This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period, AD 100 - 200. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffel coat. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts. Following SF-332DF0, this example is suggested to be Post Medieval, about AD 1600 - 1800. A number of similar items can be found on the database; see for example SWYOR-9FE646, YORYM-AC5D26, WILT-7AEF1 KENT-A72BF2 and SWYOR-5D3F15.

LON-48ED88: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Medieval to Post-Medieval silver double-ended dress fastener (14th - 16th century). The fastener is made from twisted silver wire with two sharply pointed ends curved over to form an agraffe. Dimensions: diameter: 2.47mm; length: 32.73mm; width: 11.11mm; weight: 1.46g. A similar dress fastener on the database is LON-779C73. References: Read, B. 2008. Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. A Classification and Catalogue of Sharp- or Blunt-Hooked Clasps and Miscellaneous Hooks, Eyes, Loops, Rings or Toggles. Portcullis Publishing, Langport, Somerset. Conclusion: As the dress fitting is greater than 300 years old and is more than 10% silver it fulfills the requirements of the Treasure Act 1996.

NARC-39653A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy Strap Fitting of Post Medieval date (AD 1500-1750). The fitting is composed of a sub-circular plate with an integral upper trapezoidal attachment loop, two flanking circular loops and l lower loop. The front face of the object has a raised moulded design, composed of a stylised floral motif and a repeating scroll work/curvilinear motif forming four quadrants. The back of the object is flat and undecorated. The metal is dark green in colour with a slightly pitted patina. Length 39.76mm, Width 36.46mm, Thickness: 2.46mm, Weight 6.6g.

KENT-6D7365: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy dress fastener of probable post-medieval date (c.1550-1700). Description: The body is sub-oval in form and flat. There are two attachment loops on either side, the complete example is surmounted by a small finial, the other is incomplete. There is the remains of a third attachment loop at the base, now mostly missing. At the top is the remains of what was probably a rectangular strap loop, as is often seen on this type of fastener. Both faces appear to be plain with no discernable decoration, but shows traces of white metal coating The surface has an even light green patina. Read classification: Early post-medieval Class A blunt-hooked and eye clasps, Type 2, no.635. Dimensions: length 28.73mm, width 26.16mm, thickness 1.9mm and weight 3.93g.

NMS-17332A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Discoidal mount of copper alloy sheet with a central hole filled with remains of an iron rivet and surrounded by rust on both faces. The front face is engraved with a ring of rocker-arm around the edge and eight lines of the same radiating from the centre. The object is probably part of a Read 2008, early post-medieval double sharp-hooked clasp of Class S, of which two other examples with circular plates have been recorded in Norfolk (NMS-6DA7EF and NMS-AE34D1). However, rivets that secure the front plate to the double hook in this class are normally of copper alloy. For a shield-shaped plate with an iron rivet see NMS-C76094. Weight 2.96g. Diameter 27mm. Thickness 0.6mm. c.1450 - c.1550.

An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener dating to the early Post Medieval period (c. AD 1500-1600). The object is sub-oval in plan with an integral, rectangular loop or eye at one end. The object has four attachment loops: one either side of the main plate just above the rectangular eye and two at the terminal end of the plate directly opposite the eye. Two out of the four attachment loops are broken. The attachment loops project outwards beyond the line of the plate. Just above the two lower attachment loops are two knops on opposing sides of the plater. The face of the plate is flat and decorated with an incised floral-like design. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The object has a dark green patina. This type of dress fitting can be categorised as Read Class A, Type 3 (Read 2008: 173) The overall dimensions are as follows: 41.71mm in length, 23.19mm in width, 2.29mm in thickness and 7.12g in weight.

An incomplete cast copper-alloy dress fastener (hook) (Read's Class A, Type 2) of post-medieval date (c.1600-1700). Description: The body is sub-oval in plan and flat with bevelled edges on one face. There are triangular attachment loops on three of the sides and the remaining side tapers to a rectangular hook with a transverse collar at the base. Most of the hook mis now missing. Both faces appear to be plain with no discernable decoration. The surface has an even medium brown-green patina. Dimensions: length: 40.1mm, width: 27.3mm, thickness: 2.2mm and weight 5.82g. Discussion: Oval hooks and eyes with three attachment knops are classified by Read (2008) as Class A, Type 2. See nos. 636 and 637 for close parallels.

KENT-67C1FA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy dress fastener (eye) (Read's Class A, Type 2) of post-medieval date (c.1600-1700). Description: The body is sub-oval in plan and flat with bevelled edges on one face. There are triangular attachment loops on two of the sides, with the third missing. The remaining side has a rectangular loop with a transverse collar at the base. The upper face is highly decorated with engraved and punched foliate design within a beaded border. The surface of the decorated face has a traces of a white metal coating. The underside is undecorated and has a medium brown-green patina. Dimensions: length: 32.1mm, width: 30.1mm, thickness: 2.2mm and weight 5.44g. Discussion: Oval hooks and eyes with three attachment knops are classified by Read (2008) as Class A, Type 2. See nos. 639-644 for close parallels.

SWYOR-A5427B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy dress fastener whose form has been suggested by Read (2008: 170) to date to the early Post-Medieval Period around AD 1500 - 1600. The object is a Read class A type 2 eye fitting from a hook and eye dress fastener. The object is composed of a rectangular attachment loop, which is broken with the one side of the outer edge missing, at the top of a flat, broadly oval plate. There is an integral cast collar between the loop and the plate. This plate has three projecting knops, one placed on either side of the plate aproximately one third of the way down the length of the plate, and another at the apex. Each knop is a pointed oval and is pierced by a circular hole. The fastener has a green patina with remains of a white metal coating. The object weighs 4.14g, has a length of 39.9mm and has a width of 30.4mm. Similar examples are illustrated by Read (2008: 170, particularly No. 635) and are also included on the PAS database such as SWYOR-D6A070, PAS-B9606C, OXON-53F5CB and OXON-D16212.

SWYOR-CD29FC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A worn copper alloy Post Medieval blunt hooked hook piece from a hook and eye type fastener, of Read class A, type 2, dating from the early post-medieval period, about AD 1550 - 1700. It has an oval body with three pierced lugs for attachment, one on each side of the oval and one at the end. At the other end of the oval is a transverse ridge, and a broad curved hook which bends forwards. The face of the body is convex and is decorated with a embossed design which is undefinable due to the condition of the dress hook, but which seems to have a three lobed cupola at the looped end, and scrolls at the hook end. The reverse is concave and plain. The dress hook has a brown mottled patina. It is 38.8mm long, 23.4mm wide and 4.9mm thick. It weighs 7.56g. A similar dress hook is illustrated in Read, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, page 169, number 630, and Read suggests a date of AD 1550 - 1700 for this class of dress hook.

DOR-F1B88E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener dating to the 17th century. A Read Class A, type 9. It comprises a flat, oval plate, pointed one end, the remnant of a rectangular attachment loop which is mainly all missing. The plate is flanked by the remnants of three rounded, pierced lugs for attachment, one on either side below the missing loop and one at the pointed end. All the lugs have a central circular perforation. The front of the plate is decorated with a central incised quatrefoil flanked by round ended scrolled leaves or curlicues. The rear is flat and undecorated. Reference: Read, B, 2008, pg.178, no.677 Date: Post Medieval Dimensions: 29.6 mm x 15.85 mm Weight: 2.24 g

KENT-EA7CEB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A near complete cast copper-alloy dress fastener (hook) (Read's Class E, Type 1) of post-medieval date (c.1500-1550). Description: The body is rectangular in plan with three semi-circular knops along each long edge. At one of the short edges is a sub-rectangle loop for attachment, now missing a small piece, and at the opposite end a double-ribbed collar decorates the juncture of the plate and hook. The plate is decorated with a raised rectangular panel. The object has a medium green patina. Dimensions: length: 23.2mm, width: 10.9mm, thickness: 8.6mm and weight 1.64g. Discussion: Rectangular hooks are classified by Read (2008) as Class E, Type 1. See nos. 294-297 for close parallels.

SWYOR-4B88BB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy dress fastener whose form has been suggested by Read (2008: 171) to date to the early Post-Medieval Period around AD 1500 - 1600. The object is a Read class A type 2 eye fitting from a hook and eye dress fastener. The object is composed of a rectangular attachment loop at the top of a flat, broadly oval plate. This plate has three projecting knops, one placed on either side of the plate aproximately one third of the way down the length of the plate, and another at the apex. Each knop is a pointed oval and is pierced by a circular hole. The worn decoration on the eye fitting comprises a spray of flowers surrounded by a series of small round indentations, executed in stamped lines and annulets. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The fastener has a green and brown mottled patina. The object weighs 4.9g, has a length of 36.27mm, a width of 27.57mm and a thickness of 2.03mm. It is similar to the example on page 171 of Read (2008) number 641 and SWYOR-A5427B.

SUSS-F51EFA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete, copper alloy post medieval blunt hooked dress fasterner of Read's Class A Type 2 dating to the period c. AD 1500 - 1650. The object is the eye section of a two part blunt hooked clasp. It comprises an ovoid copper alloy plate with a sub-triangular loop which projects from the wider end. The upper surface has relief decoration in the form of a human head surrounded by foliate tendrils within a reserve border which forms the edge of the plate. There are the remains of three attachment knops, two positioned on each side edge and one at the base which appears to have a collar above. The object has a worn green patina with traces of gilding on the upper surfaces and edges. Measurements: length: 29.45mm; width: 17.93mm; thickness: 2.84mm and weight: 3.13g An example of the hooked element of this type is illustrated in Read (2008) pg. 171, no: 645. Other examples recorded on the PAS database include: SOM-7C03E5 and LIN-A67655

SWYOR-58B01C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Post medieval hook-piece from a hook-and-eye type fastener dating from AD 1550 - 1700. The body of the hook is oval and convex. The front is decorated with an incised flower and foliate design. There are three integral projecting attachment loops, one at the apex and one at each side of the top of the hook, which is missing. It is 31.6mm long, 15.3mm wide, 3.6mm thick, and weighs 4.67g. Similar examples are found on the PAS database and on pages 168 and 169 of Read's Hooked Clasps and Eyes (2008).

SOM-A66E14: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy single-hooked clasp of late medieval to early post-medieval date, c. 16th century AD. The form of the dress fastener comprises a trefoil of hollow domed bosses, each decorated with pellets and twisted wire filigree. The central circular depression is empty, but may originally have held glass or gem. Some evidence of white metal coating. On the back there is a soldered copper alloy attachment bar, and at the bottom, evidence of a broken hook. Read, 2008: Class D Type 6, nos. 260-3. Cf. SF-CD194A and ESS-9B9893.

NMGW-BD13AF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of cast copper alloy in the form of a head of uncertain date, likely Post Medieval. The object is a fragment of a larger whole, the purpose of which is uncertain. The object is sub-oval in plan, with a near plano-convex section, the obverse being bast in relief and the reverse being slightly concave (suggested by Mark Redknap to be indicative of shrinkage produced by casing in an open mould). Every edge of the object is a break, indicating the object formed part of a larger, flat object. The obverse is decorated in the form of a male face, with a beard executed with lines radiating from the pursed lips, a moustache, and almond shaped eyes set beneath a stylised brow ridge that flows into the nose, and curves down either side of the eyes like a helmet. Above the brow ridge the hair is executed in radiating lines and is topped by a coiled spiral knot of hair at the very top of the head. The detail of the decoration is incomplete, with patches of damage, but largely survives. The metal has a black pitted patina with patches of dark green corrosion product. The identification of this object is difficult, although a post medieval date is suggested by the XRF results. XRF testing showed the alloy was predominantly copper with small zinc and tin signals present, as well as trace quantities of iron and lead (likely from soil contamination). This suggests that the alloy was probably a form of gunmetal (copper with zinc and tin), commonly used in the Post Medieval period. The art style of the object also seems to fit well with Post Medieval art. A different potential identification made during the early stages of recording was that the head may be the head of Saint Alban- decapitated and tied to a tree by his hair- from a medieval pilgrim badge. However, the use of copper alloy as a material makes this identification very unlikely. A more likely candidate for ID was suggested by Cat Rees- the object may be a fragment of a post medieval dress fastener e.g: LVPL-A64B37, KENT-3A1B94, CORN-90E204. Length: 22.7mm Width: 13.2mm Thickness: 3.6mm Weight: 2.9g

NARC-623847: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Dress Eye of Post Medieval date (AD 1550-1700). The object is a Read type 1 class 2. The object is sub-rectangular in plan with the two longer edges being scalloped. There is a sub-rectangular attachment loop at one end which has a small central portion of the upper bar missing due to old abraded breaks. Below the loop, flanking the edges are two projecting circular loops with central circular perforations. Extending from the opposing shorter edge is a projecting loop with a circular central perforation. There is a central rib running along the length of the main body, with three oblique oval recesses to either side. The two upper and lower ovals have retained black or dark blue enamel and the middle ovals have green and white enamel. There are two crescent shaped cells on the rectangular loop end of the central rib, which white and green enamel. The reverse of the fitting is plain and undecorated. The metal is red-brown in colour. Length: 39.69mm, Width: 21.87mm, Thickness: 1.95mm, Weight: 4.9g Read 2008 p.172 no.646

NARC-CE8419: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy dress fastener (hook) of Post-Medieval date (AD 1600-1700). Read's Class A, Type 2. The object is composed of a sub-ovate plate with bevelled edges on the upper face. There are three, evenly spaced perforated lobes, each with a central circular perforation, and a small knop at the apex of each. The fourth side has two small knops flanking a rectangular projection which terminates in a transverse break, which would have formed a blunt hook. Length: 40.94mm, Width: 26.88mm, Thickness: 1.94mm, Weight: 5.3g The metal is dark green in colour with a slightly pitted patina. Oval hooks and eyes with three attachment knops are classified by Read (2008) as Class A, Type 2. See nos. 636 and 637.

DOR-03DE04: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress fastener. An ovoid plate cast in one piece. It is undecorated except for two parallel incised lines denoting the collar separating the plate and eye. The three trefoil attachment knops and eye are complete. It Read Class A, type 1. Date: Post Medieval - c. 1550 - 1650 Dimensions: 36.20 mm x 27.72 mm x 1.75 mm Weight: 5.53 g Reference: Read, B 2008 Hooked-clasps & Eyes, page 170 no 635. Similar to OXON-6F7278, OXON-53F5CB Class: blunt hooked fastener Sub class: Read Class A Type 1

SWYOR-0F65F9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval eye piece from a hook and eye dress fastener dating from AD 1550 - 1700. It is of Read's early Post medieval blunt hooked and eye clasps Class A type 2. It is broadly oval with two perforated lobes on either side of the rectangular loop at one end. One circular loop is incomplete and the plate is distorted, bending at an angle across the middle. The main body has moulded floral decoration of a bell shaped flower emerging from a border of tendrils. The other end of the plate is missing. The reverse is plain. The patina is green / brown and the surface is worn. Measurements are; length 23.4mm, width 20.3mm, thickness 5.3mm and weight 3.03g. Thickness of the body itself 2.2mm. Compare number 647 on page 172 of Read (2008) for a complete example of what appears to be the same design, but which is also enamelled.

LEIC-C74DC6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Early Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 24mm in length, 18mm wide and 1mm thick with a weight of 1.85grams. The object is one half of a two piece hook and loop clothes fastener. It is incomplete, missing part of one side, and is sub rectangular in form and rectangular in cross section. The object consists of a rectangular fixing loop with rounded knops at each corner. Below is a sub triangular plate with a semi-circular cut away in the centre of its rounded lower edge. it has moulded linear decoration designed to resemble a scallop shell and is bordered at its base by a double rope like ridge. The object fits Read class E, type 8, egs. 471-72, and is very similar to LEIC-1A88D5.

SWYOR-2CE62D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete early post medieval hook piece from a blunt hooked hook-and-eye-fastener dating from AD 1550 - 1700. It is of Read's Class A type 1. The clasp is cast in copper alloy with a moulded design in relief. The design consists of three concentric rings of raised pellets around a central cluster of pellets; the effect is that of a stylised flower. Three rounded attachment knops arount the circumference of the clasp have all broken. There was one at the apex and one projecting at each side of the hook. A hole has been punched through the clasp, possibly as a repair, to replace the loop at the end. The hook has broken and is missing. Measurements, length 31.6mm, width 22.8mm, thickness 2.2mm, weight 4.36g. Compare number 614 on page 166 of Read (2008), though it is the eye piece rather than the hook piece.

NARC-3B4C3F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Dress hook or Eye of Post Medieval date (AD 1550-1700). The object is a Read type 1 class 2. The object is sub-rectangular in plan with the two longer edges having two pairs of projecting, perforated lobes, two of which are partially missing due to breaks. There is a sub-rectangular attachment loop at one end which is broken and missing a portion of its upper bar. From the opposing shorter edge is a transverse break, which would have formed either a projecting loop or hook. The front of the plate is decorated with in incised motif composed of seven repeating pairs of scrolling lines, flanking a central spatulate motif. The reverse of the fitting is plain and undecorated. Length: 39.69mm, Width: 21.87mm, Thickness: 1.95mm, Weight: 4.9g The metal is green in colour with a slightly pitted patina. Read 2008 p.172 no.646

KENT-D2F274: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy Eye of a two part dress hook and eye Post Medieval date (AD 1550-1700). Read 2008 type 1 class 2 Description: The object is sub-ovoid in plan with the two longer edges having two pairs of projecting, perforated lobes, two of which are partially missing due to breaks. There is a sub-rectangular attachment loop or eye at one end which is broken and missing a portion of its upper bar. From the opposing shorter edge is a transverse break, which would have formed another attachment point. The front of the plate is decorated in motif cast in low relief composed of a rose above foliage with running spirals flanking it on either side. Within a border of two circles. The reverse of the fitting is plain and undecorated. Measurements: 33.66mm long, 21.11mm wide, 1.98mm thick and 4.29g in weight Discussion: This type of dress hook is illustrated in a number of forms by Read (2008. 172) with a number of others reported to this databased with varied decoration. NARC-3B4C3F is one common form similar though with different decoration

OXON-E7EDAF: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy hooked tag (dress hook) dating to the early Post Medieval period of the Read Class A type 7. The main body of the dress hook is domed with radiating grooves and represents a scallop shell. The eye is rectangular. Three attachment holes are present, two on either side of the base of the eye and one at the end of the shell opposite the eye. The reverse is concave. The dress hook measures 36.5 mm in length, 18.7 mm wide and 4.4 mm thick. It weighs 7.6 g. The dress hook is a dark green to brown colour, with an even surface patina. A similar example has been published as No. 659 in Read, (2008, 174), and is classified as an Early Post Medieval single blunt hook Class A, Type 7. Read (2008, 165), mentions that these types continued in use throughout the 17th Century. Similar examples are WMID-96454D, CORN-FD8262 and SOM-BFAD3

LVPL-A8AC5D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy object, probably a post medieval dress fastener or toggle dating to c.AD 1600-1800. The date and function of this object type debated; they are considered as either a late Iron Age or Roman cosmetic pestle, or a post medieval clothing fastener / toggle. The object consists of a rounded body in the shape of a pointed oval that is circular in section. From one side extends an integral, short, sub-rectangular sectioned shaft ending in a pair of rings positioned side by side. The fastener has a rough dark brown patina. Dimensions: Length 24.77mm; width 18.52mm; weight 4.64g This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period, AD 100 - 200. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffel coat. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts. A number of similar items have been reported to the PAS, see: SWYOR-9FE646, YORYM-AC5D26, WILT-7AEF1 KENT-A72BF2 and SWYOR-5D3F15.

LVPL-8D5AB4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Treasure case 2022 T201 Description: An incomplete silver gilt dress fastener dating to the post medieval period (c.AD 1500-1600). The fastener is broadly triangular in form with a loop protruding from the bottom. The main body is a cast design presenting a heart in the centre which is flanked by a pair of wings or perhaps leaves, each with a small circular protrusion in the centre. Atop of the heart is an oval knop with an incised hatched design on the body that splays at the base to form a curved peak on either side. This may represent an acorn. Evidence of gilding survive largely around the heart. The reverse is flat and undecorated. Dimensions: Length 31.6mm; width 20.21mm; thickness 2.31mm; weight 5.3g Discussion: Such fasteners were worn during the post medieval period in order to secure items of clothing. This example has no direct comparison, but is similar to Read’s (2008: 207) early post medieval unclassified eyes, see no.751, which has a comparable protruding loop. Other unclassified dress fasteners reported as Treasure include 2017 T1143 (SF-5E78CC) and 2018 T541 (SF-46DE7D).

NLM-1BDE73: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy skirt lifter fragment, as kindly identified by Simon Maslin, who comments: 'I would suggest this is actually part of a Victorian "skirt lifter", not anything Roman. See here for comparison: Record ID: SUR-DB3645 - MODERN dress fastener (unknown) (finds.org.uk) . Cast round section rod with a tiny scoop at one end, broken at the other. The finder has cleaned, and perhaps also straightened, the object. Suggested date: Post-Medieval, 1850-1900. Length: 47mm, Width (scoop): 4.8mm, Diameter (handle): 3.2mm, Weight: 2.80gms.

NLM-1F4B55: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy skirt lifter, as kindly identified by Simon Maslin, correcting an initial identification as a Roman ear scoop. Simon suggests a Victorian date. Round-section shank with a flat curved oval scoop at one end, and a flat plate at the other; the latter appears to have broken in antiquity at a perforation . Suggested date: Post-Medieval, 1850-1900. Length: 85.22mm, Width (scoop): 6.08mm, Diameter (of shank): 3.10mm, Weight: 4.57gms.

DOR-02BC82: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete and bent copper alloy hooked dress fastener. A Read Class A, Type 2 clasp. It comprises an oval plate which is squared at one end where a rectangular loop would have been, only the stubs remain. The plate is flanked by one attachment loop on one side edge, the opposing loop has broken off. At the opposite end to the attachment end is a third attachment loop at the apex of the plate. All the attachment loops have a central circular hole and a small knop at the apex. The front of the plate is decorated with a stamped and incised foliate design of a central stem with round ended leaves or flowers to the sides. Around the edge of the plate is a row of ring-and dot stamps. The rear is flat and undecorated. Reference: Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, p. 170, Nos. 363 & 367 Date: Post Medieval - c. 1600 - 1700 Dimensions: 34.4 mm x 22.3 mm x 0.5 mm Weight: 2.91 g

SOM-405427: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy post-medieval dress fastener, c. 16th century AD. The fastener is the 'female' tag from pair of hooked tags; it has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular loop at one end (now partially broken). Either side of the plate are two smaller pierced lugs, with a third at the rear of the tag for attachment (the third is also broken). The centre of the plate is decorated with a harp motif, which is likely to be a south western type. Cf. OXON-A8A1BE and GLO-EE60B7. Length: 37.22mm, width: 33.99mm, thickness: 2.94mm, weight; 7.18g.

SOM-407FF5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener, c. 17th century AD. Read Class A Type 2. The fastener is flat with a sub-oval plate, flattened at one end and pointed at the other. It has five pierced attachment lugs projecting outwards: one from the point, one either side of the widest part of the oval plate, and one at each side flush with the flattened end. The loops on the point and the right hand side edge are broken. The plate is decorated on one side with incised vegetal/foliate motifs comprising a large central stem with a possible flower at the top (at the point of the oval plate) and leaves projecting outwards from the stem. There is a beaded border. Cf. DOR-02BC82; Read, 2008: 170,nos. 363 & 367.

DEV-561BB6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-medieval copper alloy hooked clasp, dating to c. AD 1645-1660. This is one section of a two part hooked clasp and features the hook itself. The object has a central circular plate, very slightly convex with a hollow reverse. There are three small sewing loops, two on either side of the hook and the third directly opposite the hook. This latter loop has a knop on the outer edge. The front of the plate is cast in low relief with a depiction of a shield containing the cross of St George in a wreath (part of the Commonwealth arms). Measurements: diameter 42 mm, thickness 5 mm, height of hook 8.5 mm, weight 9.56 g. Read (2008, 167, no 619) publishes near identical examples as part of his Class A, Type 1. This group is generally dated to the 17th century and Read notes the association of this type with Civil War battle sites although with more examples known this association is now not clear. The use of the Arms of the Commonwealth, the cross of St George on this part, and the harp on the other (see SOM-4562B3), suggests a date c. 1645-1660. Webley (2018) has studied similar blunt hooked fasteners with Commonwealth arms: re-affirming the South Western bias in their distribution suggested by Robinson (1999). Webley suggests it may relate to the extent of conflict and divergent loyalties and opinions in the area during the Civil War.

OXON-A8A1BE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper alloy, copper alloy dress fastener whose form has been suggested by Read (2008: 104) to date to the early Post-Medieval Period c. 1500 - 1600 AD. The object is composed of a rectangular tag attachment loop at the top of a flat broadly oval plate. This plate has three projecting knops, two placed on either side of the plate approximately one third of the way down the length of the plate and another at the opposite apex of the plate from the loop. Each knop is D-shaped with a slight pointed projection extending from its apex and is pierced by a circular (c.2mm diameter) hole. Both the front and the reverse are flat and plain. The dress fastener has a dark brown patina. The object is 38.3mm long, 28.63mm wide, 1.82mm thick and weighs 4.21 grams. The object is a Read class A type 2. Similar examples are illustrated by Read (2008: 170, particularly No. 635) and are also included on the PAS database such as OXON-53F5CB, SWYOR-D6A070, and OXON-D.16212

SUR-F94EF8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy oval bodied dress fastener with three projecting loops. The fastener is covered with stamped foliate decoration. Cf Read nos. 639-644.

SUR-7ABCFD: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork dress fastener with three apertures, a lys-like terminal and the remains of two iron rivets. The hook is missing.

SUR-8F7C7C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy sheet metal possible dress fastener. The fastener has a pentagonal body with three holes, two of which are large. The third and smaller hole is infilled with iron. The fastener has a projecting tapering hook.

SUR-B6BC82: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. The fastener has an oval body on which is a sexfoil. The hook and part of the attachment loop are missing.

An incomplete and bent copper alloy hooked tag, dating to the Post Medieval period. On the face side it has a devolved floriate design consisting of two oval "circles" with three smaller circles or scrolls within. The complete object would have had three attachment knops, two ornamental knops and either a blunt hook ot squared loop. This dress fitting is a Read (2008:175) Class A Type 8 post-medieval hooked tag dating from c. AD 1550-1700.

BERK-3888D3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy barrel dress fastener of Read's (2008) Class C Type 3, dating to the late medieval / post-medieval period. The fastener has a rounded front but is missing the flat back plate. There is a broken hook projecting from one end of the fastener, and a large, secondary hole towards the rear terminal. The front of the fastening is decorated with a cross-hatched design boound top and bottom by a double linear. An identical example can be seen in Read (2008:54) no. 168.

WMID-6178F7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook of the early Post Medieval period, circa AD 1600 -AD 1700. The hook is sub oval in shape with a rectangular suspension loop and perforation. The main body of the dress hook has three incomplete perforated knops projecting from the outer edge, one on either side just below the rectangular section, and one at the rounded point of the oval. The front of the object is decorated with a foliate or floral design with a central trefoil engraving, it has an outer border of incised or punched circles or rings. There is a ridged collar at the juncture of the plate and eye. The reverse is plain and undecorated. The object measures 34.86mm in length and is 20.12mm wide. It has a thickness of 2.36mm and weighs 5.2g. The object has a green coloured uneven patina, there is evidence of possible tinning on the front giving it a slight dull grey colour. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil may have resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail. A comparative example has been published as number 643 in Read, 2008 (p171) and he has classified it as an Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasp, Type 2 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating. Similar examples have been recorded on the database, including WMID-59B4DD.

SUR-66A3DE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener with three projecting fixing loops, a rectangular loop for the opposing hook and a central flower. cf.Read nos. 681-685.

WMID-B51E35: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress hook (blunt hooked hook), of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1600 - AD 1700). The hooked tag is ovoid (oval) in plan, with originally three debased trefoil attachment knops (or loops), two are complete. An incomplete blunt hook is present. The centre of the tag is decorated with an oval panel bearing a a spray of three flowers, bordered by ring and dot motifs. The back is undecorated. The hooked clasp measures 41.1 mm in length, 24.8 mm wide and 8.2 mm thick (including hook), 2.1 mm thick (not including hook). It weighs 5.8 grams. The hooked clasp is a dark green colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decorational detail. A comparative example has been published as #639-645 in Read, 2008 (p170-1) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 2 which have three attachment knops. These are considered to be 17th Century in dating. Several similar examples have been recorded on the PAS database, including: SWYOR-E47D07; SOM-66AE51; SOM-E0FF65 and SWYOR-6B0EA2.

SUSS-B5CC4B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener (AD 1550-1650). The object is one half of a 'hook and eye' fastener and represents the hook portion. It consists of an oval flat plate which has three protruding attachment loops containing circular sewing holes, arranged at cardinal points. The plate is decorated with a flower like inscribed motif. The object is completed by a rectangular plate emerging from one end of the plate, which has been folded to form the hook that would loop through the partnering eye. The item matches a Brian Read's 'post medieval class A type 2' hook and is similar to p.171, nn. 640-644. Length: 34.86 mm Width: 27.85 mm Thickness: 1.15 mm Weight: 4.25 g

SUR-B5A6D9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. The fastener has a diamond-shaped aperture in the centre and engrailed edges.

GLO-B87D32: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'female' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a circular openwork plate that is decorated with a central six petalled flower that is surrounded by four curvilinear scrollwork bands, this is all encased within a circular border. On the forward edge is a large rectangular loop that forms the female element for the corresponding hooked plate. Either side of the plate are two pierced attachment lugs with a third at the rear, this final loop has a rearward projecting knop at the back. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

SUR-0E6D16: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of a Post Medieval copper-alloy openwork dress fastener of quatrefoil form. The quatrefoil has a raised pellet at each junction. cf. Read nos. 446-447.

WILT-775221: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to AD 1550-1700. A sub circular fastener with moulded relief and openwork missing its hook. There is a pellet either side of the junction of the plate and the loop, a cross with central pellet which protrudes beyond the edges forming small rounded knops, and two knops either side of the hook. The fastener measures 21.7mm in length, 16.4mm in width, 1.67mm in thickness and weighs 1.26 grams. cf. No. 414 in Read (2008), Class E Type 3 and is dated to the early post medieval period.

SWYOR-DE97BC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy dress fastener element; the eye piece from a blunt-hooked, hook and eye clasp, of Post Medieval date, probably AD 1500 - 1800. The object is a pointed oval plate, with a broken sub-rectangular eye at one end, and a large circular hole perforating the other end. The front has a design in relief which is badly corroded and unintelligible apart from one curling scroll tendril near the eye. There are traces of a white metal coating. On the reverse is a copper alloy rivet near the eye on the centreline. The large perforation may also have been for a rivet. The edges are damaged near the eye, but there may have been projecting attachment loops. It is 34.5mm long, 20.9mm wide and 2.8mm thick. 5.28g. The metal is dark red and very corroded. There is a patchy green patina on the reverse. This design does not match any in Read (2008), Hooked Clasps and Eyes, but is similar in function to his Early Post-Medieval Blunt-Hooked and Eye Clasps, Class A (page 164 onwards). If there were projecting attachment loops, the rivet may be a later repair, since Read notes that no hook and eye plates have been discovered with surviving rivets. The large hole in the apex of the plate is also uncharacteristic. Another dress fastener with rivets is KENT-B64635. Compare also ESS-689321 for an example of the general type. BUC-0051F6 also have holes in the plate instead of projecting attachment loops.

WILT-B3BF07: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An Early Medieval to Medieval copper alloy hooked tag, probably dating to AD 700-1100. The tag consists of a circular plate, with a sharp, rearwards facing hook projecting from the base. There are two circular perforations at the opposite end. The plate is inscribed with decoration depicting an expanding armed cross within a field of radiating lines. There is a split in the metal along one of the incised radiating lines near the hook. Dimensions: 26.68mm in length; 21.03mm in width; 0.77mm thick; 0.9g in weight. cf. Read (2008) pages 15 - 17. This is an example of Lewis & Naylor's 2013 type A1.c.iii.

WAW-4C737E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A silver possible dress fastener, probably dating to late 15th to 16th centuries. The item has a hexagonal body and is inscribed in the centre with the Christogram IHC. The letters stand for IH[VS] C[HRISTVS] (Jesus Christ). The surround has six petal-like projections around the circumference that have rounded edges and small indentations at the centre. Within the hexagonal body that is slightly raised from the surrounding petals, is a border formed from a series of oblique indentations. The reverse is undecorated, but bears the remains of a horizontal attachment hook or fitting. This is now missing and would have been soldered on. The remains project slightly from the edge of the object. The object measures 8.5mm in diameter and is 2 mm in thickness. It weighs 0.86 grams. A direct parallel has not been discovered on the PAS database, however the object bears resemblance to (2011 T135) a silver gilt hat hook or cap badge with the same religious iconography although this example is slightly larger. The initials of IHC or IHS are seen on many objects on the PAS database including silver cuff-links, finger-rings and pendants, they have broad dates from the Medieval period to Post Medieval periods. Bailey (2004) illustrates a 16th century bronze fastener with the same initials in Fig. 12.24. In terms of age and as the object contains a minimum of 10% precious metal it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act (1996). Reference: Bailey, G. (2004) Buttons and Fasteners 500BC-AD1840. Witham, Greenlight Publishing.

WILT-5B39C7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Part of a Post-Medieval copper alloy dress fastener of Read's (2008) Class a type 10, dating to c. 1600-1700. The fastener consists of a lozengiform plate with slightly concave sides, with pairs of opposed scrolled volutes projecting from the two angles on the lateral sides. A rectangular loop projects from one ond, with the juncture with the plate flanked by sewing loops. A third sewing loop projects from between a further pair of volutes at the opposite end. The front of the plate is decorated with a floral motif, cast in low relief. Length 38.2mm; Width 22.9mm; Thickness 1.5mm; Weight 4.69g. cf. Read (2008: 179).

BUC-D9E124: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy post medieval hooked tag, dating to 1600-1700 AD. The hooked tag is oval in shape, and has three attachment loops. The two side loops are circular in shape and on one side there is a triangular knop projecting out, the top loop is rectangular shaped. The face of the hooked tag is decorated with an incised floral motif, with a quatrefoil leaf design extending down the tag, with a larger central projection. Below this is a floral trifoliate design. Running round the edge of the tag is a continuous border of punched ring and dots. In between this and the floral motif is decorated with incised cross hatching. The hook of the tag is now missing, and is worn and broken. The hooked tag has a red brown patina. The tag measures 31.8mm in length, 28.4mm in width, and weighs 4.04g. A similar hooked tag can be seen in Read 2008, page 171, number 644.

DUR-44833B: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete copper alloy dress hook or eye from the early post-medieval period (c.1500-1600). This is a dress fastener, of the hook-and-eye type although the hook (or eye) is missing. It consists of a cast, sub-circular openwork plate, about 15.8mm across, with an integral sub-rectangular loop, 14mm wide, on one edge and the stub of a hook or eye opposite the loop. The loop, of internal dimensions 10 x 2.8mm,has square outer corners and rounded inner corners where it meets the plate. The openwork has a central part and cross pieces with wavy crosslets. The perimeter outer edge is beaded. The surface is rough and a mid-green colour. Dimensions: 21.3mm in length, 15.8mm wide and 1mm thick; weight 1.7g. A very close parallel is shown in Bailey (2004) Buttons and Fasteners 500 BC - AD 1840, Greenlight at page 98, Fig 12.25, described as 16th Century. Similar circular/sub-circular Early post-medieval hooked clasps are described by Read in Hooked Clasps and Eyes, Brian Read (2008), page 91 - 105 as Class E, type 3, many of which have openwork plates.

SOM-4562B3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-medieval copper-alloy hooked clasp, probably dating to c. AD 1600-1700. The eye section of the two part hooked clasp. The object has a central circular plate, very slightly convex with a hollow back, from one side expands a now incomplete integral rectangular attachment loop with a round integral perforated lug opposite, the lug terminating in a small pointed knop. Two further rounded lugs expand from the edge of the plate at 11 o'clock and 7 o'clock relative to the orientation of the decoration (with the attachment loop and pointed lug being at 9 and 3 o'clock respectively). The front of the plate is cast in low relief with a depiction of an Irish harp within a wreath. Dimensions: length 42.3mm; width 35.2mm; thickness 2.5mm; weight 11.65g. Read (2008, 167-168, nos 621-623) publishes near identical examples as part of his Class A, Type 1, mostly from Somerset and Devon. This group is generally dated to the 17th century and Read notes the association with Civil War battle sites. It is likely these were used by Parliamentarians, perhaps in combination with known hook pieces bearing St George's cross, the combination of St George's cross and the Irish Harp being a parliamentary symbol later used on the coinage of the Commonwealth as well as flags (see Robinson 1999).

NARC-4AE068: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy hooked tag of early Post-Medieval date (AD 1500-1700). Read Class A Type 8. The object is a cast one piece and is composed of a flat sub-ovate plate with two projecting circular attachment loops to the left and right hand side of the broken hook. The opposing end terminates in an abraded, transverse break, resulting in the loss of the upper loop. The front face is decorated with a heraldic motif composed of the two shields of England and Ireland (Commonwealth arms - see Robinson 1999) within a linear oval border. The reverse is undecorated. The metal is a mid-green in colour with a heavily pitted patina. Length: 38.03mm, Width: 19.82mm, Thickness: 2.12mm, Weight: 5.2g. Read (2008), P 176, No 669

SOMDOR-179FA4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy dress accessory. Catch plate element of a dress fastener. A large circular, slightly domed plate with three pierced, rounded lugs for attachment. At the left side is a trapezoidal framed loop which would fit with the corresponding hook piece (not present). The lugs are set one either side of the loop and the third opposite it on the right side. This loop also has a small, rounded projection at the right side. The circular plate is decorated with a pellet border inside which is a symmetrical rope and scroll frame around a harp design. the harp is usually the emblem of Ireland. The back is concave behind the plate and is undecorated. This object has been published by Read (2008, 167; no. 621). See Robinson (1999) for objects bearing the Commonwealth Arms.

NMGW-4B1E7F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy looped mount of mid-17th century date The mount is incomplete, missing the terminal attachment loop (with a surviving length of 33.1mm, a thickness of 1.6mm and a weight of 4.0g) and is of hexagonal form with peripheral lugs. The mount was attached using three circular loops (of 3.0mm diameter), two of which survive, flanking the rectangular loop (8.1mm x 3.8mm). The face of the mount is decorated with an heraldic design in cast relief. The motif depicts two shield, one of which (on the left) is difficult to interpret but may depict a harp, representing Ireland. The shield on the right contains a voided cross, presumably the Cross of St. George, indicating England. The design appears to portray the symbols of the Commonwealth of England (1649-53, 1659-60) in reverse order. The surface has been lost with only small remnant traces of a dark-green patina, elsewhere the corroded metal is mid-brown. See Robinson (1999, 286; fig. 1), especially no. 5

WAW-36B2D3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy Post Medieval dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is probably the 'eye' and not the 'hook' of the fastening. The body of the dress fastening is an inverted sub-oval in plan with an incomplete rectangular loop along the upper edge with a circular perforation either side. At the lower tip and either side there are three more integral lugs with circular perforations. The upper surface is decorated with two shield which are the arms of the Commonwealth within a wreathed border. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress hook has a mid grey patina. The dress hook measures 30.92mm long and 21.19mm wide across the body. It weighs 4.8g. An identical example is recorded by the PAS (NMS-085D81) from Norfolk. The Commonwealth arms date the fastening to probably between 1649 and 1660. See Robinson (1999, 286; fig. 1), especially no. 5

SUR-E8D107: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A hooked strap fitting with three lobed projections for rivets. The main body of the object is circular, domed, and concave on the back. From the body projects a hook, most of which is missing. The decoration is raised and is in the form of a cross of St George within an oval 'wreath', indicative of a date during the Commonwealth period. The fitting is patinated dark brown. See Robinson (1999, 286; fig. 1), especially no. 6

SUR-4DBAA7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval strap fitting; one of a pair with a rectangular loop to take a hooked tab on the opposite fitting. The cast decoration depicts the Commonwealth arms. See Robinson (1999, 286; fig. 1), especially no. 5

HAMP-273C55: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A corroded and incomplete cast copper-alloy hook-piece from a post-medieval dress fastener (17th century AD). The artefact has broken before the double protruding attachment loops above the hook. Just over half of the sub-oval plate survives with a slightly bifurcated protrusion at the widest points. It tapers to a terminal with scrolled protrusions either side of a circular protruding attachment loop. The loop has been bent upwards slightly as a result of old damage; at the broken other end one of the sides has been bent down slightly. The upper surface is moulded in low relief and bears the Commonwealth Arms, the conjoined shields, set within a laurel wreath (Robinson 1999). The lower surface of the object is flat and plain, with the metal corroded to a red-brown colour with a covering of gery and off-white corrosion product. A parallel can be found illustrated in Read (2008, 177; ref. 673). Others with the same design have been recorded on this database; SUR-4DBAA7 is an eye-section also found in Hampshire.

DOR-F36C69: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener dating to the 17th century. A Read Class A type 1 hook piece. It comprises a convex, sub circular plate, hollowed at the rear with a trapezoidal loop at the lower edge. The plate is flanked by rounded, pierced lugs for attachment, one complete and one broken flanking the loop. There was probably a third at the opposite side to the loop where the plate is now broken. The lugs have central circular perforations. The front of the plate is decorated with a transverse band below the break and a series of parallel diagonal ridges below, filling the rest of the field. Reference: Read, B, 2008, pg.170, figs. 621 to 623 are similar in shape but with different decoration. Date: Post Medieval - c. 1600 - 1700 Dimensions: 20.55 mm x 22.86 mm x 2.79 mm Weight: 3.19 g

SUR-2D8EA7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
One part of a two-part set of strap clasps. The hook on this clasp is missing. There are three loop extensions for rivets. The cast decoration depicts the Arms of the Commonwealth (see Robinson 1999 for further such objects).

WMID-95B596: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy blunt hooked clasp (dress hook), of Early Post Medieval dating (AD 1649 - AD 1660). Approximately 95% of the hooked clasp is present, with only the hook missing. The clasp is ovoid (oval) in plan, with one attachment loop on the left side and two on the right (either side of the remnants of the hook). The centre of the clasp is decorated with the joined shields of the Commonwealth Arms. The left shield bears the Cross of St George, and the right shield has the Irish harp, although that is heavily worn and less easily identified. The back is plain and undecorated. The hooked clasp measures 42.38 mm in length, 20.12 mm wide and 1.87 mm thick. It weighs 4.3 grams. The hooked clasp is a mid green to brown colour, with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the ploughsoil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface and decorational detail. Similar examples have been recorded on the PAS database as BERK-4EBF97, PUBLIC-3C03F5, WAW-70FFB2, HAMP-273C55, SUR-4DBAA7 and WAW-36B2D3. Two comparative examples have been published as #673-4 in Read, 2008 (p177) and he has classified them as Early Post Medieval Class A single blunt hooked and eye clasps, Type 8 which have three attachment knops. The presence of the joined shields of the Commonwealth, would indicate that this clasp was produced during the Commonwealth Period (AD 1649 until AD 1660; Robinson 1999).

BERK-4EBF97: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy Post-medieval hooked clasp with moulded relief displaying the Commonwealth Arms. The clasp is ovoid in plan and has one attachement loop on the left side and two on the right, where the remains of the hook protrude. The centre of the clasp is decorated with the joined shields of the Commonwealth Arms, - only the left shield bearing the Cross of St George can be discerned clearly, while the shield on the right (Irish harp) is very worn. The Commomwealth of England was established in 1649 and lasted until 1653, dating this clasp nicely to the middle of the 17th century. For comparison see Read 2008:177 no. 673. See Robinson (1999, 286; fig. 1), especially no. 4

NMGW-3FAADE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval tin-alloy (‘white metal’) clothes fastener of mid-17th century date (1649-54) The cast dress-fastener is the looped component of the hook and loop fastener and is complete (with a length of 36.9mm, a thickness of 1.5mm – 1.9mm and a weight of 4.8g). The mount is of oval form with a circular attachment loop (3.2mm diameter) at the apex and two others flanking the terminal rectangular loop (7.8mm x 2.9mm internal dimensions). The edge of the mount is decorated with cast scrolls, terminating at the centre and near the apex (giving a maximum width of 21.0mm). At the centre of the mount is an oval vegetal frame (19mm x 12mm) within which is a variation of the ‘Arms of England’ used under the Commonwealth between 1649-54, comprising a shield containing a harp adjacent to a shield containing the cross of St George. Unusually, the Cross of St George is on the right, rather than the left, possibly a mistake in the mould. The rear of the mount is flat and is not decorated. The surface has a dark-grey patina. This form of clothes-fasteners was common in the 16th and particularly the 17th century, however a fastener decorated with the Commonwealth of England Arms is unusual and the reversal of the positions of the shields is even more difficult to parallel.

PUBLIC-658B7A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
This is a post-medieval dress fastener bearing the arms of the Commonwealth. A sub-rectangular sheet plate stamped in the form of a lozenge with a large semi-circular lobe projecting from each side, each with elaborate geometric decoration comprising curved lines and two coat of arms in the middle. There are two lobes at the top but one of these is broken. The reverse is smooth and flat. Length 30.2mm Width 20.6mm Thickness 1.5mm Weight 3.83 g

LANCUM-8B79A4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy shield-shaped figurative mount of probable Post Medieval date. There are obvious loop decorations and 2 potential loop decorations along the edge of the object. The object has imagery 'stamped' onto the obverse, which consists of 3 rings of different sizes around the image, and a central dotted image. The patina is dark brown-green and is patchy due to erosion. The length is 37mm, the width is 20mm and the weight 4.1g. The object has strong similarities to NMGW-4B1E7F, and appears to share the looped decoration on the edge. Other similar objects can be seen in records ESS-04794F and NLM-3950C9.

WAW-70FFB2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy Post Medieval probable dress fastening. This component of a dress fastening is the 'eye' and not the 'hook'. The body of the dress fastening is a horizontal moulded sub-lozenge in plan which is decorated with the Commonwealth Arms. One side terminal of the mount has an incomplete rectangular loop with a circular mounting hole either side. One is incomplete. The opposite edge of the object has another circular mounting hole. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The surface of the dress fastening is abraded and is a matt brown colour. The dress hook measures 35.47mm long and 20.44mm wide across the body. It weighs 4.5g. The object is probably a dress-fastening, but according to Read (Read, B. 2008 Hooked-Clasps and Eyes Portcullis Publishing) there is no certain evidence for this. This dress fastener is classified as Read Class A, Type 8 which probably dates to the early Medieval period, perhaps the 16th to 17th centuries. See Robinson (1999, 286; fig. 1), especially no. 5

BH-ED9503: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy wire dress fastener of Read Class A, type 1 dating to the Post Medieval period (c. AD 1445-1600). The fastener is comprised of a single piece of circular-sectioned wire bent over on itself to form a hook and two circular attachment loops. The surfaces have light green and mid brown patination. It measures 19.6mm long, 12.7mm wide and weighs 1.67 grams. For parallels see Read 2008, p. 155, nos. 582-586 as well as LIN-50601E, SUR-89A0A9 and SWYOR-EE6A86 recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database.

YORYM-F1E2D0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
TREASURE CASE : 2016 T494. Description: A complete silver hooked tag of Post-Medieval date. The object is sub-triangular and comprises a sheet of metal with a flared attachment end with five perforations along the curved upper edge. The lower edges of the attachment end are curvilinear and narrow to a wide rectangular blunted hook with upturned end. The object appears undecorated. Dimensions: Length: 21.6mm; Width: 28.9mm; Thickness: 1mm; Weight: 1.4g. Discussion: This was initially thought to be from the early-medieval period. However, curators at the British Museum took the view that it is more likely to be 17th-century in date; compare LEIC-978451 (2018T277) and NMS-3D19D5 (2012T100).

DEV-E2D292: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-medieval cast copper-alloy dress clasp, broken at the diagnostic end but an eye piece, based on similar examples (c. 17th century). The fitting is flat backed and has a moulded front. The central plate is oval, and is broken at one narrow end; the other narrow end terminates in a fleur-de-lis shaped, the central part of which is perforated as an attachment loop. At the centre of each of the longer sides are protruding conjoined knops. Within a border the device on the front is probably a fleur-de-lis (see below) that fills the field. Measurements: 25 mm in width, 26 mm in length and 4.49 g in weight A parallel can be found illustrated in Read (2008, 176) no. 667. There seems to be a lack of clarity regarding the design, which may be a fleur-de-lis, based on the published example quoted, or a standing human figure facing, based on a published hook piece (ibid., no. 666).

CORN-4F2DCE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener hook of Read's Class A, Type 2 (AD 1500-1700). The object has an sub-oval plate with moulded foliate decoration, with the projection for the hook extending from one of the long edges. The hook is now broken. From the opposite edge is a triangular projection from which extends an incomplete loop; the other two loops are situated at either end of the opposite long edge and are also both incomplete. The decoration on the plate comprises two addorsed small flowers on stalks and with leaves springing from a median bar and pellet within a border. The reverse of the dress hook is flat and undecorated. A similar example is illustrated in Read, 2008; 179, no. 651. See IOW-700468 and HAMP-A3F757 for similar examples on the PAS database. Measurements: Length, 34.61mm; Width, 24.23mm; Thickness, 2.31mm; Weight, 5.94g

LIN-91780D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy post-medieval dress fastener (dress hook) dating to c.AD 1500-1600. The object is plano-convex, with the decorated face being convex. It is cast in one piece with moulded relief and quatrefoil openwork with a trefoil of pellets. Above the openwork, the hook expands into an integral rectangular loop with a sub-oval aperture. The hook is flat on the reverse, with bevelled edges, gently curved, the tip has broken off and missing. At the junction of the plate and hook is a ridged and ribbed collar. Length: 29.81 mm; Width: 12.97 mm; Thickness: 2.19 mm and Weight: 1.50g Read p. 111, no. 446 - Class E Type 6

SUR-B1BDEC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post Medieval copper alloy wire-work eye section from a dress fastener or chatelaine hanger dating to the 16th century. The hook is constructed from coiled and flattened wire, arranged in six spirals, three to either side, with an open attachment loop on the long axis. At the base of this loop is a small hooked loop which likely represents the folded-back end of another of the wire components of the object. These components are collectively bound together along the centre by a rectangular bundle of finer gauge wire. See LON-587021 or LON-7E5A24 for comparable hook sections.

DOR-4A7AE1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy blunt hooked dress fastener. A Read Class A, Type 2 clasp. It comprises an oval plate which is squared at one end where it narrows into a sub-rectangular strap opening. The plate is flanked by two attachment loops, one on either side towards the end where the strap opening emerges with a third attachment loop at the apex of the plate at the opposite end. All the attachment loops have a central circular hole and a small knop at the apex. The front of the plate is decorated with a stamped and incised foliate design of a central stem with round ended leaves or flowers to the sides. Around the edge of the plate is a row of ring-and dot stamps. The rear is flat and undecorated. Reference: Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, p. 170, Nos. 363 & 367 Date: Post Medieval - c. 1600 - 1700 Dimensions: 38.06 mm x 27.37 mm x 1.48 mm Weight: 3.25g

PUBLIC-8B4E29: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy 'hooked tag' type clothing fastener circa 16th centuryAD. Circular central design surrounded by an openwork symetrical pattern. A rectangular fixing point and a downward facing hook at the other end. This is similar to Class E Type 3 hooked tags (Read 2008:120 nos 389-390) however it cannot be paralleled to any in the volume and is of unusual decorative form.

PUBLIC-8C3081: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
One half of a Post Medieval cast copper alloy 'hasp and clasp' type clothing fastener circa 16th/17th century. Large floral petalled decoration in central obverse field with double knops on both top and bottom. The reverse is both flat and plain.

YORYM-DD530A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy dress-hook eye of post-medieval date, c. AD 1500 - 1650. The dress-hook eye is of Read's Early post-medieval Class A, Type 8 being oval in plan with three attachment knops, two bifurcate ornamental knops and a rectangular attachment loop. The end attachment knop is collared. The upper surface is decorated with an oval panel of moulded-relief decoration bearing possible foliate and floriate within a beaded border. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The metal has a mid-green patina and is worn. The dress hook is 38.15mm long, 22.06mm wide, 2.11mm thick and weighs 6.76g. Similar dress fasteners can be found illustrated in Read (2008), p.175, nos.663-664. Read, B., (2008). Hooked-Clasps & Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

DOR-C05245: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy blunt hooked dress fastener. A Read Class A, Type 2 clasp. It comprises an oval plate which is squared at one end where it narrows into a the remnant of a forward curving rectangular blunt hook at one end. The the plate is flanked by two attachment loops, one on either side towards the the end where the hook emerges with a third attachment loop at the apex of the plate at the opposite end. All the attachment loops have a central circular hole. The front of the plate is decorated with a chequered design and may have been gilded or enamelled to give contrast to the alternating squares but the surface is now too corroded to be certain.The rear is undecorated. Reference: Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps & Eyes, page 169 - 170, Nos. 633 & 634 (both are eye-sections rather than hooked) Date: Post Medieval - 17th century Dimensions: 39.41 mm x 21.70 mm x 4.96 mm Weight: 6.19 g

DEV-876CEE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-medieval cast copper-alloy openwork dress clasp, broken at the diagnostic end but an eye piece, based on similar examples (c. 17th century). The dress fastener comprises a circular moulded openwork plate with seven pellets at the centre, forming a sexfoil flower. This is surrounded by a band of eight circular perforations, three of which have worn through. This is in turn surrounded by a moulded border of alternating pellets and transverse bands. There are three rounded attachment knops positioned around the circumference. A rectangular hook projects from the bottom of the plate and terminates in an old break. Measurements: 22.90 mm in width, 35.53 mm in length and 4.29 g in weight A parallel can be found illustrated in Read (2008, 165) no. 612 (from South Dorset). Other examples recorded through the PAS have been recorded from across the country, be they other hook pieces (e.g. BERK-9ED5F3, DEV-F703D5) or corresponding eye pieces (e.g. YORYM-C17ECB, SOM-3F5D12).

BERK-FC9736: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener, c. 17th century AD. Read Class A Type 2. The fastener is flat with a sub-oval plate, with a rectangular loop at one end and a circular loop at the other. It has two pierced attachment lugs projecting outwards: one either side of the widest part of the oval plate.

SUR-79960D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy blunt hooked post medieval dress fastener of Read (2008) Class A, Type 2. The plate is triangular and has been tinned but appears otherwise undecorated aside from a moulded ridged collar across the base of the broken blunt hook or eye at the wide end. There are three flanking drilled attachment loops, one of which is missing. Circa mid 16th to 17th century.

LON-8AA948: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post medieval copper alloy eye clasp dating 16th - 17th century. This eye clasp is made from wires of two different thickness. The thicker gauge wire has been curved round to form the loop of the eye clasp and the two ends are curved back on themselves to form the loops for attachment. There is a thinner gauge of wire "wire seizing" that is wrapped around the narrowed section of the eye clasp between the loop and the sewing loops. All the wire used to make this eye clasp has been flattened. Dimensions: length: 29.86mm; width: 19.58mm; thickness: 2.76mm; weight: 3g. This eye clasp was probably used in conjunction with chatelaine blunt-hooks of a similar construction that are dated 16th - 17th century, please see Read (2008:146-148).

YORYM-80BD74: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy hooked fastener of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1600 – 1700. Read's Class A, Type 2. The object is flat and sub-triangular, with a scalloped edge. There are three rounded three attachment loops, one at the narrower end and two at opposite points of the wider end. The remains of a thick rectangular-section hook project from between the loops at the wider end. In between the loops, the sides of the plate each have three ovoid scallops. The centre of the front of the plate is decorated with a longitudinal beaded ridge, and each of the three oblique ovoid panels to either side has a double ovate moulding. This relief decoration results in a feather-like appearance. The reverse is flat and undecorated. The object is 36.7mm long, 22.6mm wide, 2.4mm thick and weighs 5.9g. A similar example is illustrated in Read (2008), p.172, no.646. They date to the 17th century.

NARC-BF8982: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy probable Dress Fastener (blunt hook) of Post-Medieval date (AD 1600-1750). The object is composed of a sub-ovate plate with two, evenly spaced perforated lobes, each with a central circular perforation. The central plate tapers to a rectangular projection which terminates in a transverse break, which would have formed a blunt hook. The upper surface is decorated with an integral motif consisting if an arrow shape with lozenge below, tapering to a rectangular shaft, which extends down the hooked aspect. Both surfaces retain minor traces of gilding. Length: 40.13mm, Width: 24.81mm, Thickness: 2.44mm, Weight: 7.2g The metal is brown in colour with a slightly pitted patina.

SWYOR-838689: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy probable shoe or clog hasp, which would have been used with a similar clasp to secure a wooden shoe to the foot, dating from AD 1700 - 1900. It is a rectangular frame round a rectangular opening. Projecting from one long edge are two prongs, curving away from each other, forming an anchor like double hook. Measurements are; length 18.1mm, width 21.1mm, thickness 1.6mm and weight 1.37g. The opening on the hasp would have taken the hooked part of the clasp. The opposite end, shaped like an anchor, was used to secure the hasp to the fabric, and the opposite clasp would have also had an anchor terminal to do the same. This object is almost identical to another found close by - see SWYOR-8378A7. Compare CORN-36C1A4 which cites Bailey (1992) illustrates a similar example on page 17, No.36, which is dated to the 19th century, and SOM-836E32 which cites Read 1995, 178-9, refs. 1207-1220. These two examples are not exact parallels, but NARC-6B790D is almost identical, but is probably mis-identified as a buckle due to the similarity to anchor shaped buckle pates.

SWYOR-842D9C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy hook, from a hook and eye fitting of Modern date, probably AD 1800 - 1980. It is made from thick gauge circular-sectioned copper alloy wire, bent double, then bent into a hook, with the ends each curving out to the side to form two sewing or attachment loops. The object is 36.1mm long, 24.9mm wide, 21.2mm thick and weighs 14.66g. It was found close to another almost identical object - SWYOR-8434BA. A very close parallel is Read (1998) number 589, his Early Post Medieval Class A, type 1. Fasteners like this were used on uniforms in the 19th cemyury and beyond, though the robust nature of this example may suggest it is from a marquee or tarpauline.

DOR-C23561: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy hook piece from a hooked clasp and eye fastener. The end of the tapered hook is missing. The object comprises a circular plate, hollowed at the rear, with a trapezoidal loop for attachment at one and the remnant of a tapering hook opposite. The front of the circular plate is decorated with a circular framing ridge at the edge surrounding a motif of a human head in relief. The details of the face are somewhat worn, but it appears to be bearded with wavy hair. It is set with the top of the head towards the hook and the chin towards the loop. Date: Post Medieval c. 1500 - 1550 Reference: Read, B, 2008, Hooked Clasps and Eyes, page 93, no. 328 Dimensions: 31.24 mm x 13.40 mm x 3.54 mm Weight: 2.30 g

SWYOR-79F477: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An oval and openwork Post Medieval dress fastener; an eye piece from a hook and eye paired fastener, dating from AD 1500 - 1700. It has a narrow incomplete loop at one end, with two small circular sewing holes for attachment behind it. The perimeter of the plate is engrailed or scalloped with ornate scroll work, and there is an oval knop at the apex. This does not appear to be broken, so it is probably not a dress hook with a broken hook. The centre of the plate has a central rib, with three openings on each side of it. Length 29.3mm; width 18.0mm; thickness 1.7mm and weight 3.48g. This fastener does not appear to fit into any Read (1998) Class, though it is broadly like his early Post Medieval blunt-hooked and eye clasps, Class A, type 14. 15 and 16 (page 182). If the fastener did have a missing hook, it is similar to early Post medieval Class H, type 3 (page 121).

SUR-D2F042: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper alloy blunt hooked post medieval dress fastener. The plate has traces of tinning and has engraved foliate decoration in the form of flanking leaves around a central stalk with a trefoil flower, all within a border of punched annulets. There are three flanking drilled attachment loops, one of which is missing and the blunt hook or eye loop at the end has broken off. As Read (2008), 171, number 642. Mid 16th to 17th century.

SUSS-C06C9D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete post-medieval copper alloy blunt hooked clasp of early Post-Medieval date (AD 1550-1700) The object consists of a shield shaped plate with three integral attachment loops, two at the base of the object forming the corners and one protruding at the apex. At the base of the object between the loops the integral flat rectangular hook extends, recurving upwards with a rounded blunt end. The upper surface of the plate is decorated with a crowned fleur-de-lis in moulded relief, with scrolls below. The crown itself is curved round the centremost point of the lis. The reverse of the plate is plain and very slightly concave. The object is dark brown in colour with green patches and lightly worn. Dimensions: length: 36.73mm, width: 19.38mm, thickness: 2.95mm, weight: 4.75g A similar example is illustrated in Read 2008: pp.173, no.654, classified as an Early Post medieval Class A, type 5 (shield shaped). Another example can be seen here SOM-3853D7.

DUR-CEA1D9: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete copper alloy part of a skirt lifter, dating from the post-medieval period, probably Victorian, probably 1850 - 1880. This object has a copper alloy shaft, of circular section (3.5mm diameter) terminating in a small scoop at one end and a flattened section at the other, terminating in a broken loop. A groove, 2mm wide, runs across the reverse of the bar, aligned with the reverse of the bowl of the scoop-shape and 21.5mm from the end of the scoop shape. The shaft is bent at about 90 degrees approximately half way along its length. The surface is rough, red-brown in colour with some green patches and traces of brassy metal. In the inner corner of the bend, there are bright patches of brass metal where the surface has been impacted. It is about 88mm long if unbent, 6.6mm wide (across scoop) and weighs 6.1g. This object is a broken part of one arm of a skirt lifter. The arm is broken at the central pivot, which is now the broken loop at one end of this object. The flattened part had a hole through which two such arms would have been joined with a fixing allowing them to pivot and be operated like a pair of tongs. The scoop shape is the part which would have been operated to open and close the tongs. The other end, which is missing from this object, would have had a plate attached to grip the fabric of a lady's skirt. A central decorative holding loop would have held the tongs in their closed position, and this would probably have engaged in the groove which is present in this object. A picture sowing a complete skirt lifter having a similar arm design to this object is shown at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skirt_lifter and a slightly different design is illustrated and described at https://fidmmuseum.org/2013/08/skirt-lifter-c-1876.html. Similar objects are on the database at WMID-EFD02C, SWYOR-23F084 and SUR-DB3645 amongst others. All appear to have been broken at the hinge hole.

GLO-B2E417: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'male' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a circular plate with the base of a truncated hook at one end. Either side of the hook are two pierced lugs (one is missing) with a third at the rear for attachment. The centre of the plate is decorated with a central harp surrounded by two rows of ropework style concentric rings. This artefact dates to the 16th century. See SOM-405427 for the looped ‘female’ equivalent.

NARC-9DEB51: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy double-hooked Dress Fastener of Early-Medieval date (AD 700-900). Read 2008 early medieval Class M. The object is composed a central, solid, cylindrical body with a large circular hole through the transverse axis. The cylinder tapers slightly towards the hook ends. The surface is decorated with deeply incised rectangular cross hatching. At each end of the cylinder projects a short length of an integral drawn wire hook. The hooks are sub-circular in cross section. Length: 42.22mm, Width: 8.93mm, Thickness: 1.17mm, Weight: 11.0g The metal is mid green in colour with a predominantly smooth patina. Similar examples can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: DOR-C3029D, NMS-EE54B7 and WAW-3E6E44. The double-hooked fastener is a type of dress fastener which would have supported a chain through the perforation. Margeson (Margeson, S. 1993 Norwich Households; Medieval and Post Medieval Finds from Norwich Survey Excavations 1971-78 East Anglian Archaeology Report) illustrates a similar fastener, No. 79 which was found in a 11th to 12th century context, however it may be of an earlier date, the Middle Saxon period. LANCUM-A79DB1 notes: Sometimes identified as shroud hooks, such objects might also have been used as harbicks (havettes or shear-board hooks, implements to fix cloth during the sharing of the nap). See discussion in Hinton Hamwic 1996, 47-8. Examples from Norfolk include those from Cantley (Norfolk Historic Environment Record number 51311), Norwich (Norwich Households no. 79) and Roudham (PAS SF-E1B756). An incomplete copper alloy double-hooked Dress Fastener of Early-Medieval date (AD 700-900). Read 2008 early medieval Class M. The object is composed a central, solid, cylindrical body with a large circular hole through the transverse axis. The cylinder tapers slightly towards the hook ends. The surface is decorated with deeply incised rectangular cross hatching. At each end of the cylinder projects a short length of an integral drawn wire hook. The hooks are sub-circular in cross section. Length: 42.22mm, Width: 8.93mm, Thickness: 1.17mm, Weight: 11.0g The metal is mid green in colour with a predominantly smooth patina. Similar examples can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: DOR-C3029D, NMS-EE54B7 and WAW-3E6E44. The double-hooked fastener is a type of dress fastener which would have supported a chain through the perforation. Margeson (Margeson, S. 1993 Norwich Households; Medieval and Post Medieval Finds from Norwich Survey Excavations 1971-78 East Anglian Archaeology Report) illustrates a similar fastener, No. 79 which was found in a 11th to 12th century context, however it may be of an earlier date, the Middle Saxon period. LANCUM-A79DB1 notes: Sometimes identified as shroud hooks, such objects might also have been used as harbicks (havettes or shear-board hooks, implements to fix cloth during the sharing of the nap). See discussion in Hinton Hamwic 1996, 47-8. Examples from Norfolk include those from Cantley (Norfolk Historic Environment Record number 51311), Norwich (Norwich Households no. 79) and Roudham (PAS SF-E1B756).

LVPL-091033: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener dating to the post medieval period (c.AD 1500-1600). See Read early post medieval, Class A, Type 1: Circular. The fastener consists of a roughly circular plate with two complete circular loops projecting from the top and a third incomplete loop at the bottom. Between the two upper loops is an incomplete rectangular loop. The face is decorated with a moulded design of a multi-petalled flower formed from three concentric segmented circles with a single pellet in the centre. The reverse is undecorated. The object's surface has a smooth dark green patina. Dimensions: Length 31mm; width 34.6mm; thickness 1.5mm; weight 7.58g

DEV-E95DE6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An almost complete copper-alloy post-medieval dress fastener, c. 17th century AD. It comprises an oval plate which is squared at one end where it narrows into a sub-rectangular attachment loop (eye), separated by a low collar. The plate is flanked by two attachment loops, one on either side, but one side has been broken through. At the apex of the plate is a third attachment loop. All the attachment loops that are present have a central circular hole and a small knop at the apex. The plate is plain apart from two parallel incised lines on the collar. This side also appears to have been filed, through a white-metal surface treatment. Measurements: 24 mm in width, 36 mm in length and 4.93 g in weight It may be compared to an example illustrated by Read (2008, 170) no. 635, categorised as his Early post-medieval Class A, Type 2.

BERK-4A0AF4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener, c. 17th century AD. Read Class A Type 2. The fastener is flat with a sub-oval plate, with a rectangular loop at one end and broken point at the other. It has two pierced attachment lugs projecting outwards: one either side of the widest part of the oval plate. The fastener is plain on both sides. One side is the remains of a white metal coating.

LVPL-2F74AC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Treasure case 2022 T612 Description: A mostly complete silver ‘S’ shaped dress fastener, possibly a collar link dating to c.AD 1350-1500. The object is in the form of a lombardic ‘S’ with cast decorative features. The centre of the S has raised, thin rib that is flanked on both sides by a beaded border. At the top and bottom of the central element is an open tulip, the stems of which are the head and tail of the S. The tails terminate in a double curl and host an attachment loop between the curls and a second at the tip. One of the four attachment loops are missing. The reverse is flat and undecorated. Dimensions: Length 11.99mm; width 15.19mm; thickness 1.74mm; weight 1.39g Discussion: The attachment loops on the object suggest it functioned as a kind of dress fastener. A similar example formed of a double S is from Wiltshire (2005T442; WILT-CE86A5) is referred to as a collar link. At the time, James Robinson, curator of Medieval Collections at the British Museum commented that ‘collars of letters 'S' were developed as part of the livery of John of Gaunt in the late fourteenth century and persisted in use as a sign of Lancastrian support until at least the mid-fifteenth.’ The Wiltshire example is discussed in Read (2008: 197-8) and present fig.36 as an example of the links in use.

ESS-CA2ED4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper-alloy dress fastener (eye) (Read's Class A, Type 8) of post-medieval date (c.1500-1650). Description: The object consists of a plate, oval in plan and flat with bevelled edges on one face. It has a rectangular eye at one end flanked by two attachment loops with a third at the other end. A collar of tywo knops sits at the junction between the third attachment loop and the plate. Two further knops project from the sides of the plate, at the mid-point. The front of the plate is decorated with a raised foliate design within a border composed of a cord within two single lines. The reverse of the plate is flat and undecroated. The surface has a dark grey with a worn white metal (tin) coating. Dimensions: length: 39.2mm, width: 21.9mm, thickness: 2.4mm and weight 7.55g. Discussion: Oval hooks and eyes with three attachment knops and two ornamental knops are classified by Read (2008) as Class A, Type 8. See no. 664 for a close parallel.

ESS-B48015: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper-alloy dress fastener (Read Class A, Type 1) of early post-medieval date (1500-1650). Description: The object consists of a slightly dished plate, circular in plan, with two rounded and one debased trefoil attachment-knops and a rectangular eye. The front is decorated with a stylised sunburst multi-petalled flower. The reverse is flat and undecorated The object has an underlying pale rust-coloured patina with the decoration showing as grey green. Measurements: 35.6mm in length, 27.5mm in width, 3.1mm in thickness. 5.72g Discussion: This dress fastener fits with Read's (2008) Class A, Type 1 single blunt-hooked and eye clasps, being circular with three attachment knops.

YORYM-3C63A4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy blunt-hooked dress fastener of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1600 - 1700. Reads Class A, Type 2. The main plate is sub-ovate with two complete ovate attachment knops projecting from either side of the outer edges. The remains of a third attachment knop can be seen to the more pointed end of the plate though is lost to worn breaks. The wider end of the plate displays worn projections which would have formed an integral eye. The upper surface of the plate is decorated with a spray of three flowers bordered by ring and dot motifs. The metal has a dark-brown/green patina and is worn. The object is 27.7mm long, 27mm wide, 2mm thick and weighs 4g. A similar example is illustrated in Read (2008), p.171, no.641 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Flynn (2016) suggests that blunt-hooked fasteners should be dated to the 17th century. An example is known from a 17th-century context in Lincoln, and another from a 1680s dump at Mark Browns Wharf, London. A few oval examples have decoration including symbols of the Commonwealth and are thus datable to 1649-1660. Ref: Flynn, T. (2016) Finds Recording Guide: Hooked Tags and Other Dress Hooks and Eyes; (accessed 04/05/2023). Read, B. (2008). Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

WILT-F1B64E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete Post Medieval cast copper alloy openwork dress fastener, dating to c. AD 1600-1750. The find is the 'eye' half of a hook and eye fastener. The main body of the find is heart-shaped in plan with two small lobes above the heart. The rectangular loop which would have been above the two lobes in order to accept the clasp, is now missing, due to an old break. There is a trilobed projection into the centre of the heart at its apex. At the base of the heart is a short, rectangular crossbar above a lozenge shaped projection that is pierced with a circular hole probably for attaching to a garment. Dimensions: Length: 30.7mm; width: 22.5mm; thickness: 1.1mm; weight: 2.51g. An identical object also with the loop broken off is SUSS-EC7CE1 which has been identified as a strap fitting. A complete example is SWYOR-E8B2B1 which is identified as a dress fastener. A parallel can be found in Read (1998, 122; ref. 7) that is there described as a 17th-century wall or furniture hook. It is also possible these objects are suspension mounts or pendants of some kind.

LIN-92A511: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-medieval, cast, copper alloy dress fastener. Read Class A Type 1 'three attachment knops' dated to c.AD 1500-1700. The dress fastener has a central oval plate with a trefoil of attachment-knobs with circular perforations, in the ogee style. At one end is a rectangular loop, now partially broken. Undecorated. Mid-grey patina. Silvery sheen. Length: 39.30 mm; Width: 29.26 mm; Thickness: 1.99 mm; Weight: 6.36g Read Class p. 170, no. 635

GLO-9E49D0: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy 'male' tag from a pair hooked tags. The tag has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular hook at one end (now truncated). Either side of the plate are two pierced lugs for attachment with a two further at the rear that clank a scallop shaped projection. The centre of the plate is decorated with a human face flanked by crescent shaped drapery design. This artefact dates to the 16th century.

SWYOR-8D53FE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy dress fastener, part of the eye of a hook and eye fitting, dating to the post-Medieval period, about AD 1550 - 1700. The object is composed of an incomplete sub-circular body, with a, now missing, rectangular loop at the upper end, and the remains of an attachment hole at each side. The opposing end of the fastening is broken off and missing. The front face is decorated with a florate design. The reverse face is flat, plain and undecorated. It is of Read Class A, type 11. Dimensions: The object has a length of 22.0mm, a width of 15.9mm, a thickness of 1.9mm and a weight of 2.21g. Similar dress fittings are illustrated in Read (2010), p. 180, no. 686. For reference of similar objects in the PAS database, see CORN-914120 and NARC-346579.

LVPL-830D51: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Treasure case 2022 T8 Description A complete silver gilt dress hook dating to the post medieval period (c.AD 1500-1600). The plate is in the in form of a moulded relief knot with raised pellets. The centre of the plate is marked by a large raised pellet which defines the point at which the two threads overlap to form the knot. The ends of the rope pattern are rounded and protrude beyond the body of the knot to form four rounded points. On the reverse is a separately attached rectangular loop and a hook that curves towards the reverse of the plate. Dimensions: Length 23mm; width 10mm; weight 3g Discussion Such hooks were worn during the post medieval period in order to secure items of clothing. This example corresponds to Read's (2008) typology as part of the early post-medieval Class E, Type 6. See nos. 446-7 which have a similar knot design, although they are copper alloy and cast in one piece. Other examples reported as potential Treasure include 2009T490 (SUSS-0D2D02) from East Sussex which was disclaimed after no museum was able to acquire it. This knot type is known in heraldry as the Bourchier knot, the pellets may signify the tassels often depicted at the ends of its strands.

DUR-030F20: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy dress fastener from the early post medieval period (c. AD 1550-1650). The upper face of the fastener consists of a central oval plate decorated at the centre with a foliate motif within a plain border. On the outside edge of the plate are two decorative knops, one on either side. There are three attachment eyes, two either side of the incomplete rectangular loop and one at the opposing end. The end attachment eye is missing. The rectangular loop at one end would have taken the corresponding hook of another fastener on the opposite edge of the garment to bring both sides together. The reverse is flat and undecorated. Length: 33 mm Width: 19.33 mm Thickness: 2.13 mm Weight: 4.17 g Similar to no. 664, Class A, Type 8 in Read, 2008, p175. There is a similar example on the database at DENO-B2089D

ESS-74119C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy dress fastener (eye for a blunt hooked fastner of Read Class A, Type 2) of post medieval date (AD 1600 - AD 1700). Description: The main plate is sub-ovate with two complete round attachment loops projecting from either side of the outer edges, and a third attachment loop at the pointed end of the plate. These loops are each decorated with a projecting knop. The other end of the plate has a rectangular loop which shows signs of wear. The plate is engraved with an oval panel bearing a possible foliate and floral design within a beaded border. The reverse is undecorated. The object has a deep green patina. Measurements: Length: 39.8m, Width: 30.0mm, Thickness: 1.9mm, Weight: 6.62g Discussion: This is the eye counterpart for a blunt hooked fastener. A similar example is illustrated in Read (2008), p.171, no.641 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Similar fasteners can also be seen on the database at YORYM-E7E243 & WMID-6CE62B

BUC-79BD74: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy post medieval hooked tag, dating to 1600-1700 AD. The hooked tag is oval in shape, and has three attachment loops, two of which are now missing, with worn breaks. The remaining side loop is circular in shape. The face of the hooked tag is decorated with with a foliate design decending down the face. Below this is a floral trifoliate design. Running round the top of the tag is a continual rope border. The hook of the tag is now missing, and is worn and broken. The reverse is undecorated. The hooked tag has a mid green patina. It measures 27.3mm in length, 24.0mm in width, 1.9mm in thickness, and weighs 3.62g. A similar hooked tag can be seen in Read 2008, page 171, number 644.

BUC-79F82E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A fragment of a copper alloy early post medieval hooked tag or dress hook, dating to 16th-17th century AD. The tag is sub-lozenged shaped, only the top of the tag remains. The break is worn. The centre of the tag is decorated with foliate moulded relief. Only a petal remains on the fragment There is a thick solid border running around the edge. At the top of the tag is a rectangular loop, this is flanked by a smaller circular loop either side. The top centre of the rectangular loop is worn. There is no decoration on the reverse. The tag has a dark green patina, with patches of brown. It measures 18.9mm in length, 18.5mm in width, 1.9mm in thickness and weighs 1.63g. The tag is similar to Read 2008, page 179, numbers 683 and 684.

BUC-7A11DA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy early post medieval hooked clasp dating to 16th-17th century AD. Class A, type 1. The tag is circular with attachment knops, one on the top of the tag with projecting pellet, and two either side of the hook which is now missing. One of the lower attachment loops is worn and broken. The openwork motif is a six petalled flower bordered by palmettes. The clasp has a mid green brown patina, there is no decoration on the reverse. It measures 37.6mm in length, 31.5mm in width and weighs 7.10g. Similar to Read 2008, page 166, number 615.

BUC-9B78DA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy early post medieval hooked clasp dating to 16th-17th century AD. Class E, type 1. The tag is rectangular shaped. At the top of the clasp there are two semi circular projections, underneath it is openwork, with a large rectangular perforation. Underneath this are two square perforations. The clasp has been bent out of shape, and there is no hook remaining. The clasp has a mid green patina, and measures 20.9mm in length, 13.2mm in width, and weighs 2.36g. Similar to clasps shown in Read 2008, pages 87-91.

SUSS-AA5F13: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete cast copper-alloy dress fastener (eye) of post-medieval date (c.1500-1700). Description: The object consists of a plate, oval in plan and flat with bevelled edges on one face. It has a rectangular loop/eye at one end flanked by two small circular attachment loops with a third at the other end. A collar of two knops sits at the junction between the third attachment loop and the plate. Two further knops project from the sides of the plate, at the mid-point. The front of the plate is decorated with a raised foliate design within an oval border composed of a cord set within two single raised lines. The reverse of the plate is flat and undecorated and the attachment holes slightly bevelled (countersunk). The surface has a dark grey with a worn white metal (tin) coating. Dimensions: length: 37.47mm, width: 22.38mm, thickness: 2.11mm and weight 5.05g. Discussion: Oval hooks and eyes with three attachment knops and two ornamental knops are classified by Read (2008) as Class A, Type 8. See no. 664 for a close parallel. ESS-CA2ED4; CAM-0F293E and NMS-E30B8E are other examples on the PAS database. Blunt hooked and eye clasps are used to secure coats, but also possibly satchels or saddle bags. They come in pairs with a hooked (male) component and opposing eye (female) component that connect and are held by tension. Only one example has been found within an archaeological context in Amsterdam, dating c. 1550-1650, but they were probably common in Britain through out the 17th century (ibid: 165).

SWYOR-F2579D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy artefact, probably a Post Medieval dress fastener or toggle dating from about AD 1600 - 1800. The date and function of objects of this form are debated, it being either a Late Iron Age or Roman cosmetic pestle, or a Post Medieval clothing fastener toggle. It consists of a rounded body in the shape of a pointed oval, circular in section, from one side of which extends a short, sub-rectangular sectioned shaft ending in a pair of rings positioned side by side. The fastener has a patchy green patina. It is 24.4mm long, 16.9mm wide and 6.6mm thick. It weighs 7.0g. This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period, AD 100 - 200. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffel coat. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts. Following SF-332DF0, this example is suggested to be Post Medieval, about AD 1600 - 1800. A number of similar items can be found on the database; see for example SWYOR-9FE646, YORYM-AC5D26, WILT-7AEF1 KENT-A72BF2 and SWYOR-5D3F15.

YORYM-DCCDB2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper-alloy hooked tag of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1500 - 1700. Reads wound wire chatelaine blunt-hook Class A, Type 2. The object comprises two lengths of ovate sectioned U-shaped wire, one set within the other. The outer wire is plain, terminating to each side at the open end in tight downward facing S-shaped loops. The inner wire is looped around the bend in the outer wire and twisted up its length, remaining within the outer wire, and terminating in inward turned coils. The wires are bound together below the coiled terminals by thinner-gauge wire wrapped repeatedly around it. The metal has a dark brown patina and is worn. The object is 46.3mm long, 21.9mm wide, 3.3mm thick and weighs 6.6g. Similar examples are illustrated in Read (2008) p.147 and are dated to the early Post-Medieval period. The function (or functions) of hooked tags is uncertain. They are small, with a plate and a sharp hook which bends to the rear. What they were stitched to or hooked into is uncertain. They may have hooked into holes in textile or leather, perhaps rather like a buttonhole. Ref: Flynn, T. (2016) Hooked Tags and Other Dress Hooks and Eyes: Hooked Tags and Other Dress Hooks and Eyes – Finds Recording Guides (accessed 04/12/2023). Read, B. (2008). Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

YORYM-E7E243: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper-alloy blunt-hooked dress fastener of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1600 - 1700. Reads Class A, Type 2. The main plate is sub-ovate with two complete ovate attachment knops projecting from either side of the outer edges. A third attachment knop is present to the pointed end of the plate. The wider end of the plate displays worn projections which would have formed an integral eye. The upper surface of the plate is decorated with a spray of three flowers bordered by ring and dot motifs. The metal has a mid-grey shiny patina suggesting a white-metal coating and is worn. The object is 33.9mm long, 27.7mm wide, 1.9mm thick and weighs 4.6g. A similar example is illustrated in Read (2008), p.171, no.641 and is dated to the early post-medieval period. Flynn (2016) suggests that blunt-hooked fasteners should be dated to the 17th century. An example is known from a 17th-century context in Lincoln, and another from a 1680s dump at Mark Browns Wharf, London. A few oval examples have decoration including symbols of the Commonwealth and are thus datable to 1649-1660. Ref: Flynn, T. (2016) Finds Recording Guide: Hooked Tags and Other Dress Hooks and Eyes; (accessed 17/10/2023). Read, B. (2008). Hooked-Clasps and Eyes. Langport: Portcullis Publishing.

LIN-516977: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy, post-medieval dress fastening c. 16th – 17th century. Read Class E, Type 3. A pierced rectangular frame with raised outer edges and central pellets within a raised ‘V’ ridge, and a collar at the junction of the hook and plate. The attachment loop and most of the hook are missing. The object has a pale brown/green patina, and measures: - 21mm long. Class E, Type 3. See Read 2008, p. 104, Nos. 402 and 403.

NARC-346579: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Dress Fitting (dress eye) of Post Medieval date (AD 1550-1700). The object is composed of a sub-circular central element with a now missing flat rectangular loop at the upper end, small projecting spurs are retained and indicated the looped aspect. The opposing end of the fastening has a worn knop which would have been cinquefoil in form, it terminates in an old abraded break and a portion circular perforation is retained. There are two further perforations within the plate toward the loop end, one of which is broken along its outer edge. These holes would have enabled the fastening to be sewn to a garment to secure it in place. The opposing fastening would have had a hook to correspond with the loop on this object. The upper side of the fastening is decorated with scrolling and floriate designs. The underside is flat, plain and undecorated. Length: 29.44mm, Width: 20.32mm, Thickness: 1.52mm, Weight: 3.1g Similar dress fastenings are illustrated in Read (2010). P 180 no. 686 Similar examples can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: BERK-A1F57B LON-06FA21 and CORN-914120

NARC-7B7E03: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Dress Fastener (Skirt Lifter) of Modern date (AD 1850-1880). The object is composed of an ovate shaft, terminating in a small scoop at one end and a small, perforated loop at the opposing end. The shaft is tapered approximately 50% along the length of the shaft. Length: 42.38mm, Width: 7.55mm, Thickness: 4.76mm, Weight: 3.2g The metal is dark green/brown in colour with a pitted patina. This object is a broken part of one arm of a skirt lifter. The arm is broken at the central pivot, which is now the broken loop at one end of this object. The flattened part had a hole through which two such arms would have been joined with a fixing allowing them to pivot and be operated like a pair of tongs. The scoop shape is the part which would have been operated to open and close the tongs. The other end, which is missing from this object, would have had a plate attached to grip the fabric of a lady's skirt. A central decorative holding loop would have held the tongs in their closed position, and this would probably have engaged in the groove which is present in this object. A picture sowing a complete skirt lifter having a similar arm design to this object is shown at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skirt_lifter and a slightly different design is illustrated and described at https://fidmmuseum.org/2013/08/skirt-lifter-c-1876.html. Similar objects are on the database at WMID-EFD02C, SWYOR-23F084 and SUR-DB3645 amongst others.

SWYOR-D3A328: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper-alloy Post-Medieval toggle piece from a hook and eye style fitting, of Read's Early Post-Medieval unclassifed toggle-clasps Type 5 (Read, 2008: no. 761), dating from AD 1500 - 1700. It may be pasrt of a sword belt fitting. It has a flat plate with a damaged attachment end and pairs of large semi-circular notches to each side. At the terminal end is a projecting disc that would have enabled the object to lock in place with the corresponding catch/eye piece. At the centre of the attachment end and at the centre of the plate towards the terminal are the remains of single iron rivets. The front face of the object has extensive moulded decoration. This comprises floral/foliate motifs that run the length of the plate within a raised outer border, the disc having a voided cross fleury in relief. Measurements are; length 39.1mm, width 13.6mm, thickness 3.4mm and weight 4.85g. This toggle belongs to Read's (2008) Early Post-Medieval unclassifed toggle-clasps Type 5 and can be compared to his no. 761. This suggests a date in the 16th-17th centuries AD for the current example. Compare also BERK-689029 and SF-EFDEE7.

SWYOR-201A2F: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A gold disc, probably part of a late Post Medieval or Modern collar stud or similar dress fitting, dating from AD 1850 - 2000. It is a shallowly domed disc with no decoration. The reverse is concave and is partially covered with a black coating, perhaps an adhesive as there is no other evidence of attachment. There is a flange round the edge which is flatter and uncoated. The disc would probably have been attached to a central shaft terminating in a smaller domed disc which would have sat against the neck after being threaded though a collar. Measurements are; diameter 10.8mm, thickness 1.2mm and weight 0.41g. The body of the metal is 0.1mm thick. Compare SWYOR-F68B49 and IOW-CC7B78.

SWYOR-2D44E3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Post medieval single piece from a hook-and-eye type fastener dating from AD 1550 - 1700. It is a Read Class A, Type 2 dress fastener. The body of the hook is an elongated oval and convex, the front being decorated with drapery or floral bands at each end. There are three integral projecting attachment loops, one at the apex which is missing, and one at each side of the fitting. The attachment part is missing, so it is uncertain whether it is a hook piece or a clasp piece. It has a thick white metal coating. The reverse is hollow. The dress fitting is 22.7mm long; 22.5mm wide; 2.5mm thick and weighs 4.00g Compare number 648 on page 172 of Read's Hooked Clasps and Eyes (2008), which describes the decoration as being trilobate bands.

ESS-373311: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete and worn cast copper-alloy dress fastener (hook) (Read's Class A, Type 2) of post-medieval date (c.1600-1700). Description: The body is sub-oval in plan and flat with bevelled edges on one face. There is one remaining triangular attachment loops on one of the sides. There is a mostly missing rectangular hook. Both faces appear to be plain with no discernable decoration. The surface has a patchy dark brown and light green patina with traces of a white metal coating. Dimensions: length: 32.8mm, width: 22.4mm, thickness: 1.8mm and weight 4g. Discussion: Oval hooks and eyes with three attachment knops are classified by Read (2008) as Class A, Type 2. See nos. 636 and 637 for close parallels.

NMS-8844B7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. An eye-piece of a blunt-hooked clasp of Read’s (2008) Class A, Type 2 and similar to ibid No. 643. It is a flat sub-oval plate with a rectangular loop or eye at one end. At the opposite end and at the centre of each long edge there is a projecting circular attachment loop, although one of these latter is incomplete due to a worn break. The two complete ones have a very small round knop on their outside edges. There are two small concavities on the internal edge of the outer transverse bar of the eye, probably a result of localised wear. On the front, between the eye and the plate there is a straight transverse ridge or collar. The plate is decorated with engraved lines and small and large punched annulets arranged in a foliate pattern. Four lines begin at the centre of the ridge and diverge as they extend toward the other end of the plate. There is a triangular cluster of large overlapping annulets at the end of the two central lines and more, arranged in a curved line, on the outsides of the laterals. All together the large annulets form a pointed oval shape. All of this is surrounded by a border of smaller overlapping annulets which run alongside the very edge of the plate. The reverse is undecorated. The metal is patinated dark greenish-grey. A similar example on this database is NMS-61D4EE. 17th century. Length: 39.7mm. Width: 26.1mm. Thickness: 1.6mm. Weight: 4.5g.

NMS-88F51E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post medieval copper-alloy dress fastener. An eye-piece of a blunt-hooked clasp of Read’s (2008) Class A, Type 2 and similar to ibid No. 648. The plate is sub-oval (slightly wider at the eye end) and shallowly convex on the front, concave on the reverse. There are three projecting circular attachment loops, one at the narrow end and two opposing each other at the wide end. The eye, situated directly opposite the narrow end, is incomplete and slightly distorted. The break are not recent. It appears to have been originally oval and there is a small V-shaped notch at the centre of its inside long edge, pointing toward the plate. The front of the plate is decorated with mouldings at both ends. There is a straight transverse ridge at the junction of the eye and plate and then a raised area that has indistinct shapes within but a more clearly-trilobate edge. The lateral lobes encompass the opposing attachment lobes, while the central lobe is rounded-triangular. There is another raised trilobate moulding at the narrow end. Here each lobe is rounded (semi-circular-ended) and of equal size. The reverse is undecorated. The metal is patinated greenish grey in general and reddish brown on some of the raised areas. There are traces of a lustrous white metal coating on the front and reverse. 17th century. Length: 33.5mm. Width: 22.3mm. Thickness: 3.5mm. Weight: 5.5g

LVPL-40BD85: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete two part lead alloy dress fastener dating to the post medieval period (c.AD 1500-1600). The object consists of a hollow rectangular box with a cast hatching to the front and an incomplete open top. The long sides and bottom has a laterally projecting flans. On the reverse at the base is a sub-rectangular thickened section into which is embedded a separate wire hook that has broken off. The object has a dark cream patina. Dimensions: Length 26.1mm; width 12.4mm; thickness 7mm; weight 7.43g A close comparison is illustrated in Read (2008: 53) see no.166, which is also recorded on the PAS under SWYOR-D9ED91. These fall under Read's early post medieval Class C, Type 1, which are considered as dating to the 16th century.

BERK-340F4C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete cast copper-alloy post-medieval dress fastener (dress hook) dating to c.AD 1500-1600. The object is plano-convex, with the outer face being convex. It is cast in one piece with two moulded openwork circles, side by side, above a concave sided openwork lozenge. The sides of the lozenge taper inward two the stem which bulges on both sides with pairs of rounded knops. Above the openwork, the hook narrows into an integral circular loop with a circular aperture. The hook is flat on the reverse, with bevelled edges, gently curved, the tip has broken off and missing. At the junction of the plate and hook is a ridged and ribbed collar.

ESS-2129C5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete worn cast copper-alloy hooked tag (Read Class E, Type 3) of post-medieval date (c.AD 1500-1700). Description: The object remains as the broken and slightly distorted lobed openwork circular plate, decorated with an unclear design in a raised circular border. The plate has an integrally cast trapezoid eye and is missing its hook. Measurements: length: 23.1mm; width: 18.2mm; thickness: 2mm; weight: 2.02g

NARC-C21497: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy Dress Fitting (dress eye) of Post Medieval date (AD 1550-1700). The object is composed of a sub-circular central element with a flat rectangular loop at the upper end. The opposing end of the fastening has a worn knop which would have been cinquefoil in form, it terminates in an old, abraded break and a portion circular perforation is retained. There are two further perforations within the plate toward the loop end. These holes would have enabled the fastening to be sewn to a garment to secure it in place. The opposing fastening would have had a hook to correspond with the loop on this object. The upper side of the fastening is decorated with scrolling and floriate designs. The underside is flat, plain and undecorated. Length: 34.67mm, Width: 20.34mm, Thickness: 2.28mm, Weight: 4.6g Similar dress fastenings are illustrated in Read (2010). P 180 no. 686 Similar examples can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: BERK-A1F57B LON-06FA21 and CORN-914120

BERK-228E8A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper-alloy dress fastener of Post-Medieval date. The fastener is sub-triangular in shape with a rectangular loop at the top, parallel to the plate. The front of the plate is decorated with two eyes and a beak near the top, either side of which are cast wings, the tips of which form the edges of the plate. Either side of the eyes is a circular hole and at the terminal of the plate is a projecting, cast circular loop. The back of the plate is plain.

NMS-F007B4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval copper alloy clasp of Read 2008 early post-medieval Class G, Type 1 wire quadruple sharp-hooked clasp constructed from three lengths of wire of two gauges, the narrower one tightly wound around the other two, very similar to ibid. nos. 572-3, both from the River Thames foreshore, London. Only two other examples, also from the River Thames, have been recorded on this database (PUBLIC-76F0EB and PUBLIC-1BBE96). They differ from the present piece in being made up of five and four lengths of wire respectively. Such objects were perhaps "associated with women's head-dress assigned to the second half of the 16th century into the early 17th." Weight 2.27g. Length 35mm.

NMS-A4D497: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post-medieval copper alloy oval dress fastener of Read 2008, single blunt-hooked clasp Class A, Type 8, with part of the hook missing. Details of the counter-relief scrolled ornament are very similar to those of LEIC-FD9814. Extant length 34.9mm. Width 20.2mm. Thickness 1.7mm. 17th century.

WILT-1207D8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete Early Post-Medieval cast copper alloy hooked clasp dress fastener, dating to c. AD 1600-1700. Read Class A, Type 1 (with three attachment knops). The find is circular in plan with a sub-rectangular eye at the top and three pierced lobes for attachment situated at 2 o'clock (this lobe is bent backwards slightly), 6 o'clock (this lobe has a knop at the base) and 10 o'clock. The fastener is almost flat, but is propped up by the bent lobe. To the front it is decorated with a six-petalled flower around a central boss in moulded relief openwork. Around the flower are four mouldings in the form of pairs of curled lines. These mouldings that start on the ridged outer border of the circular plate and curve away form each other as they face towards the centre. Dimensions: length 40.3mm, width 31.8mm. thickness 2.8mm. Weight 7.04 gms. Ref: Read. B, 2008, pg.166, no.616.

SWYOR-04CAA7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early post-medieval, cast copper alloy dress fastener, the hook for a hook and eye catch, dating from AD 1600-1700. It is sub-oval in plan with a rectangular projection at one end, separated from the remainder of the fastener by a shallow ridge, bent forwards to form a blunt fastening hook. There are three perforated attachment knops, one at the end opposite the hook, and one on either side. All are incomplete. The front is decorated with a simple floral design (this could also possibly be interpreted as a fleur de lis or Prince of Wales feathers). The reverse is plain. Traces of silvering remain on the outer surface. Measurements are; length 34.6mm, width 23.6mm, thickness 6.9mm and weight 5.23g. An identical fastener is illustrated in Bailey, 2004, Buttons and Fasteners 500BC-AD1840, Greenlight Publishing, page 100, number 2.44 and also see Read (2008) page 171, plate 641-4, Class A, type 2.

SOM-E92FC3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy post-medieval dress fastener, c. 16th century AD (1500 - 1650 AD) . The fastener is the 'female' tag from pair of hooked tags; it has a sub-oval plate with a large rectangular loop at one end. Either side of the plate are two rounded attachment knops, with a third debased trefoil attachment knop at the base of the clasp. The eye section of the clasp is convex, with moulded relief, consisting of a hollow-dome bearing a wreathed irish harp. Measurements: Length: 42.89mm Width: 34.24mm Thickness: 3.65mm Weight: 10.96g. See Read (2008) pg 168, no. 623, Class A type 1.

SWYOR-8434BA: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy hook, from a hook and eye fitting of Modern date, probably AD 1800 - 1980. It is made from thick gauge circular-sectioned copper alloy wire, bent double, then bent into a hook, with the ends each curving out to the side to form two sewing or attachment loops. The object is 37.1mm long, 25.4mm wide, 18.9mm thick and weighs 14.0g. It was found close to another almost identical object - SWYOR-842D9C. A very close parallel is Read (1998) number 589, his Early Post Medieval Class A, type 1. Fasteners like this were used on uniforms in the 19th century and beyond, though the robust nature of this example may suggest it is from a marquee or tarpauline.

SWYOR-C83D69: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post medieval cast copper-alloy dress fastener; an eye piece form a hook and eye fastener of Read class A, type 8 dating from about AD 1550 - 1700. The fastener is sub-oval in plan with a broken sewing loop at one end and two complete loops at the opposite end, one either side of a protruding rectanglar eye. There is a bifurcated knop on each side of the centre of the plate. There is decoration on the face in the form of a foliate moulded design in the centre surrounded by two oval moulded border lines. The reverse is plain and flat and the surface has a patchy geen patina. It is 34.6mm long, 19.8mm wide and 1.5mm thick. It weighs 3.6g. This fitting is part of a hook and eye pair. An identical loop fitting can be seen at published record LEIC-FD9814. It fits into Read's Class A, Type 8. Compare Read (2008), Page 176, Number 665.

BERK-3C58EC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast copper alloy blunt-hooked clasp, Class A, Type 8 dating to the early post-medieval period. This is the hooked section. The object has an oval panel decorated with floral or foliate design with a beaded border. At one end is a flattened hook which is now broken. Either side of this hook are two rounded attachment loops. At the other end there is a third attachment loop. On each side is a small ornamental lug or knop. The reverse of the object is plain. Reed (2008, 175) illustrates a very similar example No. 664

LEIC-CBEA7E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete Post-Medieval copper-alloy dress fastener, dating to c.AD 1500 - 1750. The fastener is sub-lozenge. The dress fastener consists of a rectangular attachment loop, flanked by two smaller circular attachment knops at each of its inner corners. The plate expands to a sub-lozenge form with a double knop at its angle. The opposing end has a circular attachment loop. The plate is decorated with an eight petalled flower, the rear is undecorated. Read (2008) p.179, nos. 684. Length: 37.3 mm Width: 23.4 mm Weight: 4.58 g

A complete early post medieval copper-alloy dress fastener, dating to c.AD 1500 - 1625. Read Class E type 3 The dress fastener is cast in one-piece with moulded relief. It has a circular plate decorated with a six-petalled flower with six pellets and a central pellet in the interstices, within a linear border. Above the plate is a wide trapezoidal loop. Below the plate, the hook is backward curved. The reverse of the body is flat and undecorated. Other similar examples on the PAS include LIN-B7AA14. Length: 26.7 mm Width: 12.3 mm Thickness: 1.2 mm Weight: 1.78 g

LEIC-3F8401: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete post-medieval copper-alloy dress fastener, dating to c.AD 1600 - 1700. Read Class A, Type 2. The object has a sub-oval plate with three complete circular attachment loops projecting from either side of the outer edges, and a third attachment loop at the pointed end of the plate. The other end of the plate has an incomplete wide rectangular loop. The plate is engraved with an oval panel bearing a foliate and floral design comprising a central stem running down the plate with three etched circles on either side of the stem and a single circle beneath the tag. Approximately halfway down the central stem are two curving single linear petals or leaves on either side of the stem, beneath which where the stem ends are five further circles in a triangle matching the pointed shape of the fastener. The reverse is undecorated. Both the front and the reverse are flat. The object has a green and brown patina. Other example on the PAS include ESS-74119C and OXON-893F86. Length: 35.7 mm Width: 27.1 mm Thickness: 1.6 mm Weight: 3.93 g

LVPL-4CDA54: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Treasure case 2023 T165 Description: An incomplete silver gilt dress hook fastener dating to the post medieval period (c.AD 1500-1600). The object consists of the hook only, the rest of the fastener is missing. The hook is sub-rectangular in form and tapers to a narrowed point and has a D-shaped section. At the top is a worn break followed by a raised sub-rectangular collar that is presented as two bands crossing once over in the centre. Further down the hook shank is a raised rectangular boss with an incised rosette in the centre. Substantial gilding survives on the front and reverse. Dimensions: TBC Discussion: The object is most likely a separately soldered hook from a dress hook fastener. Large numbers of dress hooks with separately soldered hooks are illustrated in Read (2008) and typically date to the 16th century. Alternatively, the object may form one half of a double sharp-hooked clasp. Comparative examples are illustrated in Read (2008: 133-4). The incomplete condition of the object makes it difficult to be certain, however the overall style, decorative details and use of gilding suggests the object dates to the 16th century.

LEIC-9E6744: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval copper alloy blunt-hooked dress fastener, 34mm long, 16mm wide and 3mm thick. It consists of a domed plate in the shape of a scallop shell, decorated with incised radiating lines. From this projects a rectangular shaft with a rounded end whihc has been made into a forward-facing hook. To either side of the junction between the plate and the hook is a small circular attachment loop; a third projecting loop, at the top of the shell, contains a copper-alloy rivet. The whole object is worn and it is possible there was a design in the centre of the shell which is now worn away. There are possible traces of a design on the back of the shaft as well. The object is in fair condition with a green patina and weighs 3.10g. A similar object is shown in Read 2008, 174, fig. 656.

LEIC-75F292: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post medieval silvered copper alloy clothes fastener, 27mm long, 22mm wide and 2mm thick. The object is in fair condition with a silvered patina and weighs 3.35grams. The object is sub triangular in form and is decorated with incised foliate decoration surrounded by a border of circles. It has the clear remains of two pierced lobes at each side (there should be a third at the top) which would have secured it to clothing. The object is also missing either a rectangular slot or a hook at its base. The reverse is plain.

LEIC-C51EF7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy dress fastener, 35mm long, 25mm wide and 1.5mm thick. The object is in fair condition with a brown patina and weighs 4.49grams. It consists of a sub rectangular plate with three slightly protruding circular fixing holes. The surface is decorated with incised decoration which is worn. The reverse is plain.

NMS-3A996D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Gold hook element from a dress fastener, of composite construction, consisting of a hook (now incomplete) and an applied plate made from several elements. The applied plate is built up on a backplate made from a piece of circular sheet gold about 7mm in diameter. This has a vertical gold sheet collar soldered around the edge, which may originally have held a setting of glass, gemstone, etc. Around the collar is a separate outer frame of circular-section gold wire about 1.5mm in diameter, which has fine transverse grooves all the way round its surface. A butt joint is visible under magnification. This frame is decorated with six trefoils, each a separate element, which are held onto the frame by their stems. The stems have an irregular square cross-section (perhaps 0.5mm square) and are wrapped around the thicker wire frame in a wide spiral, giving the impression that all six elements are part of a single plant, like a trail of ivy. The stems are also soldered to the backplate and perhaps the collar, fixing the whole frame in place. The hook-attachment is soldered to the reverse of the backplate. It consists of a piece of gold wire, circular in cross-section (0.4mm in diameter) which runs across the backplate in two closely set parallel lengths. One end turns up as it meets the frame, and is then broken across both wires; this was originally the hook end. The other end has one wire broken as it meets the frame, but the other turns outwards to form a loop which projects out beyond the plate. Originally there would have been two loops, used to sew the object to the clothing. Dimensions: Surviving length including loop, 11.7mm. Width perpendicular to this, 11.3mm. Thickness including hook-attachment, 2.1mm. Maximum thickness of plate only (at the frame), 1.8mm. Weight 0.7g. Discussion: This object is of very complex manufacture yet the detail is extremely small, almost to the point of invisibility. There is no very close parallel on the PAS database, but other hook-and-eye items made in the same way do form a coherent group which includes the silver hook-pieces NMS-EDAEB2 (2016T177), SF-BBAB39 (2015T710) and LVPL-859AC5 (2014T378) and the copper-alloy hook-piece NLM-0ECC97. They fit into Read's early post-medieval Class B, Type 2 (circular plate) (Read 2008, 158-161).. Some of the design elements can be seen in other object types, with pendants DENO-C2DE6B (2019T183) and DENO-65C775 (2013T466) each having a setting within a separate decorated wire frame. Date: Read (2008, 158) points out that where decorated, his early post-medieval Class B items are all 16th-century in style, and this is true for the PAS parallels cited above. The decorative style of this item, however, is closer to the pendants with settings within wire frames, and these have date-ranges including the 15th century, based on parallels from the Fishpool hoard (deposited in 1464). As hooked dress-fasteners do not appear to come into use until the 16th century, a date of c. 1500-1550 is therefore likely.

LON-C18041: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incomplete copper alloy toggle, of Post-Medieval date. The object has an ovoid body with pointed ends. From the long side of the ovoid projects an integral shaft with a flattened double loop terminal. One of the loops is now broken. The object is undecorated; it is covered in a thick dark green patina but file marks are visible on all three parts. The patina has worn off on part of the shaft revealing a brass coloured alloy core. The object measures 25.8mm (length) x 23.0mm (width) x 8.0mm (thickness) and weighs 7.22g.

LEIC-B1DE87: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy toggle, The object consists of a solid pointed oval form with a circular section. This is attached to a circular sectioned shaft with a double looped terminal. It is 24mm long, 19mm wide and 8mm thick. The object is in fair condition and weighs 7.76 grams. No similar exmples have been found in datable contexts yet.

ESS-1B7893: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
TREASURE CASE 2010 T268 Post Medieval Dress Hook Date of Discovery: 16th March 2010 Circumstances of discovery: Whilst searching with a metal detector. Description: Silver-gilt dress hook with applied filigree decoration. The body is trefoil shaped, formed of three domed circles with a scalloped edge. Each dome is decorated with three wire loops with a central knop, with further knops in the spaces between the loops. These knops are slightly damaged with two completely missing. There is a domed rivet at the centre of the body which is undecorated other than the gilding; the reverse of the rivet has two shafts bent at right angles to secure it to the main body of the fitting. The reverse of the fitting has an integrally cast rectangular attachment loop and a soldered silver-silver projecting hook, although most of the gilt is missing. There is a worn makers mark on the reverse of the hook. It is 22.17mm long, 15.58mm wide, 6.23mm thick and weighs 2.45 grams. Date: Post Medieval - 16th Century Disposition: Saffron Walden Museum are provisionally interested in acquiring, pending inquest and TVC. The object contains a minimum of 10% precious metal and is over 300 years old. Consequently it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996 in terms of both age and precious metal content. Laura McLean Finds Liaison Officer, Essex Colchester & Ipswich Museum Service April 2010

CAM-FE05B7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy clothing fastener dating from the late fourteenth to sixteenth centuries AD. The fastener comprises two plates terminating in curved hooks. The plates are secured by means of a hinge. The upper surface of both plates is decorated with a stamped shield pattern. The fastener measures 22mm in length and 6mm in width.

HAMP2622: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper-alloy clothing fastener. Circular plate at centre with trapezoidal loop at one side and sub-oval extension opposite, with central circular perforation with engraved lines radiating from it. There are two further loops, one at the top and the other at the bottom, close to the trapezoidal loop. At the centre is a moulded ?cherub's head, with four conjoined curving bars which connect it to the outer circle, forming an openwork design. Surfaces slightly pitted.

A copper-alloy toggle of post-Medieval date. It has a solid three- dimensional ellipsoid which is 19mm wide and 8.5mm thick. From the centre of one side projects a narrow stem which is oval in section. The stem terminates in two circular loops, one on each side of the stem. The toggle is 24.4mm long from the loops to the face of the head. It has a flaky grey patina. Although it has an unusua form, several similar ones have been recorded on the database, including WMID-905A14. At present, there is no reliable typological sequence for the development of this category of artefact.

DEV-7B4821: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper-alloy toggle of Post-Medieval date. It has a pointed oval part surmounted by a post with a double circular eye fitting.

DEV-24C4D6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast copper alloy blunt-hooked clothing fastener. It is convex, with a cross made up of double lines in the centre of the front. A wreath frames the cross. It has two complete eyelets (at the side and top) and one damaged. The hook is broken. It is 16th to 17th century in date.

WMID-905A14: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A Post-Medieval cast copper alloy toggle (length: 25.3mm; width of ovoid tip/ terminal: 18.4mm; thickness of ovoid tip/ terminal: 6.9mm; weight: 5.20g). The double-loops (inner loop diameter: 3.7mm) seem to have been attached and soldered on to either side of the stem (length: 15.1mm; width: 4mm). The stem was also attached to the ovoid or 'rugby-shaped' tip/ terminal. The pestle is in a worn and poor condition with a dark purple/ brown patchy patina. At present, there is no reliable typological sequence for the development of this category of artefact. Only a few pestles of this type have been found, one of which is from Walsoken, Cambridgeshire. The usual plain appearance of the pestle has in the past made identification difficult.

KENT5048: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A post-medieval copper alloy dress fastener, probably dating to the 16th century. This object is constructed from ?three lengths of copper-alloy of wire shaped and fastened together using a thinner gauge creating a wound wire accessory of a type known to date to the 16th century. One piece of the thicker gauge wire has been folded in half to form a hook at one end, with the two terminals originally curled into spirals at the other; one has been broken before the curls. This is flanked to each long side by another piece of thicker wire, both ends of which have been curled into spirals repeating the pattern from the hooked section. All of these pieces are fastened together using thinner gauge wire which has been wrapped around them transversly. The original form of this fastener is slightly distorted, probably as a result of post-depositional damage. Egan & Forsyth (1997, 227; fig. 15.10) illustrate similar wire-work accessories for which they suggest a date of 16th century. A similar dating is given by an example from Lincoln (Egan in Mann ed. 2008, 10-11; fig. 6/11). Also see LON-7E5A24 on this database.

NARC1730: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast in one piece fastener with oval plate, three?sewing holes and a forward facing wide blunt hook. The front of the plate is decorated with a large single central flower bud surrounded by scroll work and with two small open 'rose' type flowers above; the reverse is not as well finished as the obverse, and there is a slight indentation at the back of the central 'bud' motif.

NARC1731: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A rather cupric dress fastener cast in one piece with an oval plate, three ?sewing holes and a rectangular loop; the plate is decorated with a motif of scroll work with a central boss in low relief inside three concentric ovals.

NMGW-3281D5: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Cast oval belt mount with protruding lugs and loops. There is a central motif, now difficult to discern, is within an oval double border (outer beaded and inner plain). On one side the rectangular and two circular loops are missing. There is a suggestion the mount was once tinned or silvered.

KENT-99C9F7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy clothing fastener.

YORYM-EB17F6: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
TREASURE CASE : 2013 T21. A complete gold dress fastener or stud of post-medieval date. The fastener is comprised of a hollow spherical head with a flattened base which has a very small central circular perforation and a D-shaped perforation to one curved edge. From the opposite edge to the perforation an integrally cast circular sectioned shank projects, terminating in a flat oval plate which appear to have been cast separately and soldered on to the fastener proper. The object is undecorated. Dimensions: Length: 15.9mm Head: Diameter: 11.6mm Shank: Diameter: 2.7mm Plate: Length: 12.2mm; Width: 6.8; Thickness: 0.5mm Weight 5.3g.

LIN-3AA985: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper-alloy clothing fastener. Circular plate with central rivet hole, perhaps once used to attach a separate decorative applique. To one side is a rectangular attachment loop, to the other is a small circular 'eye' turned through right angles. Compare HAMP-4657B2; probably 18th or 19th century.

WAW-B5E7D1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
The dress hook has a sub-circular body which has an integral rectangular loop above, and below a vertical, integral hook. The body of the hook has a beaded moulded border. Within the border there is a '+' and there are low relief circular cells within the field of the cross. The dress hook has a green/brown patina.

SUR-5EB918: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Two lobes of an originally trilobate clothes fastener, missing the hook. On the reverse is a fitting for attachment which forms three sides of a rectangle. Each circle or lobe has four cast rings and pellets and there is a larger pellet originally placed between the three lobes. The decoration is similar to contemporary mounts and pins made of silver.

SWYOR-D1DA58: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A silver gilt decorative element probably from a Post Medieval dress fastener or hat decoration dating from the 16th century. It is circular and convex on the front with a hollow back. It is decorated with a six petelled flower design formed from applied wire with a worn projecting rivet at the centre. The petals could have been cells for enamel or other settings, but are now empty. The circular plate has a double border of rope effect applied wire filigree. There is a C shaped loop of wire on the reverse, now flattened, which would have allowed this element to be attached to a larger object, probably a dress fastener or hat decoration similar to HAMP-6CACB7 (2006T292), SOMDOR-9B24F7 (2006T501) or SUSS-FFF5C0 (2012T412). Most artefacts in this style are attributed a 16th century date. Compare also PAS-980526 (2010W9) and IOW-18C271 (2009T421). The object is 8.6mm diameter, 2.4mm thick and 0.37g.

YORYM-967FD1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete copper alloy toggle of post-medieval date. The toggle consists of a pointed oval body with a circular sectioned shank extending from one side and terminating in a figure of eight loop. The toggle is undecorated. The metal has a dark brown patina and is worn. The toggle is 25.5mm long, 19.3mm wide, 7.8mm thick and weighs 6.8g. This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period,AD 100 - 200 as seen in SWYOR-E137B1 and DENO-D53724. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffle coat, as in SF-332DF0 and SWYOR-9FE646. One piece of evidence is the distribution ofPAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts.

NMS-3CD679: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Post-medieval gilded silver catchpiece from a dress fastener. It consists of a symmetrical moulded foliate plate with an integrally cast sewing loop on either side. A larger loop through which the hook would have passed projects from one side. The reverse exhibits a series of parallel diagonal striations, possibly indicating that the object was cuttlefish cast. Dimensions: Length: 13.9mm, width: 10.5mm, thickness: 2.3mm, weight: 0.7g. Discussion: A number of similar examples have been reported as Treasure and are recorded on the PAS database including: GLO-E6C434 (2011 T168), DOR-9D6C65 (2011 T373), BERK-749F61 (2013 T170), BERK-B461DA (2015 T362). Date: c. AD 1550 – 1700.

SUR-2B12B1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A copper alloy Post Medieval fastening or button. The fastening has a bullet-shaped double-ended body and a shaft with a figure of eight terminal for attachment.

NMS-79E837: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval gilded silver hook from a composite hook-and-eye set. Circular plate with a border of twisted wire, a central circle of plain wire with four evenly spaced ovals of plain wire linking the central circle and edge. A hook formed from a piece of wire bent double with the ends bent into loops to forms eyes is soldered to the reverse. Diameter of plate 10mm. Length 11mm. Read (2008, 159, no.598 and 599) Class B, Type 2. See ESS-FC3336 for a similar example. 16th century.

NMS-89B182: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Gilded silver fragment probably of a dress fastener. Flat-sectioned plate with two small projecting pierced lugs for attachment with a small pellet between, decorated in low relief with a fleur-de-lis within a triangular border with a pellet at the end of a scroll to either side below the pierced lugs. The lower edge is broken, probably across a loop. Surviving length 11.5mm. Width 11mm. Thickness 1.5mm. Weight 1.0g. For broadly similar examples see SUSS-3C97C2 and SOM-FDD898. 16th century.

ESS-1DE792: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Post Medieval silver-gilt 'eye' element from a two piece hooked clasp. The fitting is circular in plan with a 'D' shaped loop extending from the upper edge. More complete examples of this type of clasp bear circular loops, probably used to sew the fitting onto an item of clothing. This example has suffered extensive breaks around the edges resulting in only a small amount of fitting surviving. The upper surface has a cast design of a forward facing bust, with small depressions to represent the eyes and mouth. The reverse of the fitting is plain. Discussion: The object is similar to previous examples reported through the Treasure process, such as 2010 T255 / ESS-F12A68, 2009T502 / ESS-205795 and 2012 T77 / ESS-FBAA23.

SWYOR-9FE646: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy artefact, probably a Post Medieval dress fastener or toggle dating from about AD 1600 - 1800. The date and function of objects of this form is debated, being either a Late Iron Age or Roman cosmetic pestle, or a Post Medieval clothing fastener toggle. It consists of a rounded body in the shape of a pointed oval, from one side of which extends a short, circular shaft ending in a pair of rings positioned side by side. A casting seam is visible along the length of the solid body on the face opposite the shaft. The pestle has a dark brown patina. It is 25.8mm long, 19.2mm wide and 8.2mm thick. It weighs 6.53gm. This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period, AD 100 - 200. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffle coat. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. This example is more likely to be a toggle because it has a clear casting seam on what would be the grinding face if it was a pestle. It is argued that use as a pestle would have smoothed the casting seam, which on this example is still raised. The counter-arguement is that this is a pestle which was lost before it was used much, thus the seam had little opportunity to become worn. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts. Following SF-332DF0, this example is suggested to be Post Medieval, about AD 1600 - 1800. There are many examples on the PAS Database; compare for example, SWYOR-E137B1, KENT-A72BF2, DENO-D53724, WMID-083DF2 and SWYOR-674821.

NMS-57F66D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval silver eye-plate dress fastener consisting of a triangular plate with three twisted wire annulets within a twisted wire border which follows the edge of the plate, with a single length of silver wire soldered to the reverse bent and protruding from beneath the plate to form two attachment loops and an eye. Gilding survives on the front of the wire and plate but is missing from the centre of the three annulets suggesting a possible lost pellet. There are slight traces of gilding on the reverse and the tips of two corners of the plate are missing. Length 13mm. Width 10mm. Weight 0.5g. Read's early post-medieval Class B, Type 3 (2008, 160, no.602). Circa 16th century.

SWYOR-5D3F15: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast, copper alloy artefact, probably a Post Medieval dress fastener or toggle dating from about AD 1600 - 1800. The date and function of objects of this form are debated, it being either a Late Iron Age or Roman cosmetic pestle, or a Post Medieval clothing fastener toggle. It consists of a rounded body in the shape of a pointed oval, circular in section, from one side of which extends a short, oval-sectioned shaft ending in a pair of rings positioned side by side. The ends of the button part are worn. The fastener has a light green patina. It is 25.5mm long, 20.1mm wide and 7.5mm thick. It weighs 6.43gm. This object is one of a group of artefacts which were originally identified by Ralph Jackson and Sally Worrell as cosmetic pestles, dating from the late Iron Age or early Roman period, AD 100 - 200. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that at least some of these items are in fact clothing fasteners; toggles similar to those on a duffle coat. One piece of evidence is the distribution of PAS examples, which differ from the distribution of cosmetic sets. See the discussion on page 6 of Jackson (2010) Cosmetic Sets of Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, and compare number 513 and 593. The date of these toggles is still unknown as none have been found in dated contexts. Following SF-332DF0, this example is suggested to be Post Medieval, about AD 1600 - 1800. A number of similar items can be found on the database; see for example SWYOR-9FE646, YORYM-AC5D26, WILT-7AEF14 and KENT-A72BF2.

KENT-FEE744: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete Post-Medieval silver mount likely dating to AD 1500-1600. The mount is oval and can be divided into two halves; the upper half is decorated with two scallop shells, with the rounded outer edges of the shells creating the outer edge of the mount; there is a shallow groove between the shells. One of the shells is smaller than the other, appearing more worn, likely indicating wear. The lower half is undecorated and flat, with a circular perforation, approximately 3.2 mm in diameter. The reverse is undecorated and flat with two integral circular rivets that extend on either side of the perforation. The mount measures 15.9 mm in length, 10.3 mm wide, 2.7 mm thick and weighs 1.74 g. There are a number of comparable mounts recorded on the database; NLM-538148 is very similar to this example. A number of similar mounts exist with serrated edges including 2007 T455, HAMP-E271F0 and 2004 T451.

SUSS-4280BE: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A silver dress-fastener of the hook and eye clasp type. This item represents the hook element. The body of the item is a circular back plate. On the font filigree wire is applied around eh border and within this are four rectangular shapes applied with wire which divides the circle into quarters. Within each quarter is a circular applied wire. On the reverse is the eye element o the attachment. It is made of a single silver wire that is bent to create two loops. Looped through is another wire that may have formed a sub-rectangle but is now broken. Soldered onto this is a circular loop.

NMS-0B4F14: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Incomplete post-medieval silver gilt dress fitting: comprising the eye part of a hooked clasp. Cast gadrooned body flanked by two sewing rings, a third sewing ring springs from a terminal knop. At the other end there is a handlebar moustache-like element applied above a small knop enclosed by the terminal loop forming the eye. Length 15mm. Width 11mm. 1500-1525.

FAKL-129C23: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval dress hook of Read's Class A Type 2. Cast copper alloy both faces tinned, The plate is oval with three loops each surmounted by a small finial. On the face of the plate is an expanding, splayed plant motif, surrounded by stamped rings. The hook is missing. Length 32.3mm, Width 29.2mm, Thickness 1.8mm, Mass 5.26g.

SWYOR-2AAC8D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A silver-gilt dress fitting dating from the 16th century. The object may be a mount from a dress fastener rather than a functional clasp or hook. It is a circular disc with four integral projecting loops positioned equally round the edge, perhaps for sewing or attachment to a garment. Two of the loops have broken off and are missing. The dress accessory has applied filigree decoration. The cast plate is decorated with applied twisted wire forming three circles, and decorating the centre of each with three smaller circles in a trefoil. There is also a small filigree circle in each of the external angles between the three larger circles. There is an applied silver pellet in the centre of each large circle, and one in the centre of the plate. The front of the fitting is gilded, but this has worn off the applied pellets. The mount is 11.9mm long, 11.6mm wide and 2.5mm thick. 0.6g. Though an exact parallel has not been found, the object can be compared to SWYOR-DBA47D (2015 T150) but differs in having no soldered attachment loop, no functional hook nor eye, and in having integral attachment loops projecting from the edge of the plate. This and similar objects are all part of the suite of sixteenth century filigree dress fasteners and other objects with circle and trefoil patterns. The fitting can also be compared to Read's (2008) Early Post Medieval Class B type 3 (page 160 - 161).

FAKL-689226: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy dress hook, Post Medieval (1600-1700), leaf shaped, cast in low relief with a central plant/flower motif, rectangular eye to accomodate the hook, three attachment loops. cf. Read 2008, 175-177. Length 35.6mm, Width 18.8mm, Thickness 1.8mm, Mass 3.81g.

HAMP-144797: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast silver-gilt eye piece from a hook and eye dress fastener of early post-Medieval date (c 1500-1700). The object is moulded in the form of the bust of an angel or cherub with large feathery flanking wings or foliage sprays to either side. From the top of the head emerges a single large loop which would have received the matching hook. The left wing is largely missing. The surface is worn, but traces of gilding remain in the recesses either side of the head. There is a pair of smaller loops at the other end to attach to clothing.

NMS-AB3A70: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Post-medieval gilded silver dress fastener made in two parts soldered together. The plate is circular, slightly convex on the front, with the edge 'pinked' or cut into several small convex rounded scallops. This edge is interrupted in three places, each a quarter-way round the circle, for projecting lugs pierced with circular sewing holes; two have broken away and one is complete. Within this edge is a circular filigree border made from twisted wire; within this is a ring of 15 pellets, each one surrounded by a tiny collar of twisted wire. Next comes another circle of twisted wire, then six small annulets of wire and a central, slightly larger, pellet. The front has a dark yellow coating. The reverse is undecorated, slightly concave and has a pale yellow coating. In the centre is a slightly raised area as if the central pellet on the front has been pressed down on. The final space around the circumference is occupied by a wire loop which has been soldered on. The wire is circular in cross-section except at the ends, where it has been flattened to make a better joint. The loop has been gilded on all faces. Dimensions: surviving length with loop 19.7mm, surviving width at right angles to this 17.4mm, diameter of plate without lugs 15.5mm, thickness 4.0mm, weight 2.0g. Discussion: Composite hooks and eyes made from plates with soldered-on wire elements are well known 16th-century finds, with examples catalogued in Read (2008, nos. 597-605) and recorded on the PAS database. This one conforms to Read's class B, type 2 (circular plate) but has more complex decoration than any of Read's examples. It is perhaps closest to SWYOR-2AAC8D (2016T219), which also appears to have had integral lugs; and KENT-3F6696 (2014T423) which also has pellet and annulet decoration. Date: The use of filigree and pellets dates it to the 16th century.

SWYOR-430730: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A silver Medieval or Post Medieval possible dress fastener dating from AD 1350 - 1600. It is an eye- or catch-piece and may have had a matching hook piece when in use. The fastener is a flat plate of complex shape. One end is trilobed. The two outer lobes have an engrailed curved edge but are otherwise plain, depicted like two semi-circles placed tip to tip next to each other. In the centre is a smaller more rounded lobe, which projects further. It is decorated with raised pellets covering the front surface, and has a smooth edge. The other end of the mount is sub-rectangular and much narrower. The sides are curved to form a smooth arc round the right angle between the sides of the rectangle and the base of the semi-circular lobes. The outer edge of the rectangle is straight. A sub-square hole of about 4mm square is positioned in the centre of the sub-rectangular projection. On the reverse are curved lines, suggesting it was cast in a cuttlefish shell. There are also two integral rivets, apparently of circular cross section with burred ends. One is positioned in the centre of each semi-circular element. The mount is about 40mm long, 20mm wide and 4mm thick. Weight currently unknown. There are several object of similar construction on the PAS database, such as LANCUM-8C13DC, BM-924154 and many other examples listed in They are enigmatic items, possible hook and eye fittings from dress, or perhaps from clasps from bags and satchels. The PAS Finds Recording Guide by Helen Geake says: "Egan and Pritchard (1991, 224-226, nos. 1199-1201) discuss what may be analogous flimsy copper-alloy items found in late 14th-century contexts, comparing them to a rather closer (but still copper-alloy) parallel found in the River Thames (fig. 141). One of Egan and Pritchard’s examples was found in place on an unperforated strap.". The similarity to Post Medieval hook and eye fasteners means a Post Medieval date cannot be excluded, though there are no parallels in Read (2008).

BM-24C88E: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
This is a puzzling piece which has some similarity with 16th century dress fittings, but does not correspond precisely with examples so far recorded in that it is very thin and lightweight. It has a heart‑shaped stamp on the back which may possibly be a maker's mark, but is not one that we have been able to identify. It also has some affinity with traditional ornaments from Continental Europe.

SWYOR-088C69: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An early post-medieval copper alloy Class I hooked clasp; a chatelaine wound wire blunt-hook dating from AD 1500 - 1700. It fits into Read Class I (Class A, type 2). Either side of the double wire shank is is a separate wire which has an inward facing spiral. They are seized together and to the shank with a thinner gauge wire. The hook of the shank is bought together at the end to form a loop. The decoative end of the hook-piece is missing. The object is 36mm long, 25.9mm wide and 5.3mm thick. It weighs 5.22g. Reference: Brian Read Hooked-clasps and Eyes, page 142 reference 576.

A cast silver-gilt eye piece from a hook and eye dress fastener of early Post-Medieval date (circa 1500-1700). There is a single large loop at one end to receive the hook and three smaller loops arranged in triangular formation around the plate for attachment to clothing. The object has a trapezoidal plate with cast decoration in imitation of ground-supported filigree and granules, incorporating a central granule within a triangular frame, flanked by two further granules at the eye loop. Along each long edge of this frame are projections moulded with floral loops similar to a fleur-de-lys which emerge from small granules. Within the cells of the plate are traces of a darker gold; the pellets in contrast are silver, which suggests use of different-coloured gilding tones in the design. The reverse has file marks from finishing. Length: 16.0mm; Width 11.7mm; Thickness: 2.1mm; Weight: 1.4g.

NMS-5B3F9A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Incomplete post medieval silver dress fastener. Less than half remains. It consists of an oval or circular openwork plate, with a complete trapezoidal loop projecting and flaring away from the plate. Less than a quarter of the way around the edge of the plate from the loop is a projecting rounded pierced lug or circular sewing loop, suggesting that the trapezoidal loop is a catchpiece or eye rather than an attachment loop. On the inner edge of the trapezoidal loop, a central rectangular-sectioned projection engraved with a series of transverse grooves runs towards the centre of the plate. On either side of this projection is an inward-curving scroll, with a longer scroll curving down the inner edge by the sewing loop, ending in an old break. Dimensions: Extant length: 17.8mm, extant width: 19mm, thickness: 1.5mm, weight: 1.2g. Discussion: It has proved difficult to find a close parallel for this object, but its nearest cousins are probably to be found in the group of catch-pieces that go with Read Class A blunt-hooked fasteners (Read 2008, 164-182). Catch-piece no. 616 is probably the closest; of copper alloy, it has an openwork plate with outward-curving scrolls, and projecting sewing lugs close to the (rectangular) eye. Date: Read Class A blunt-hooked clasps can be dated from their decoration to c. AD 1600 - 1700.

SWYOR-369F70: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A silver gilt catch piece from a Post Medieval hook and eye type dress fastener, dating from the 16th century. A silver-gilt catch piece from an eye type dress fastener. A piece of silver wire has been formed into one large loop (now broken) and two smaller ones for attachment to the textile. On the front at the centre is an applied disc with three bosses and filigree ornament. Between the bosses is an applied pellet. Three similar pellets are positioned in the angles between the domes. The upper surface has been gilded. Similar items can be found on the PAS database: HAMP-BD26A1 (2011 T476), BH-0174E0 (2006 T584), and NMS-53F8D3 (2013 T542). Also see Read Class B type 2 page 159 example 599.

NARC-34A9C1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete silver gilt dress fastener of Post-Medieval date. 16th Century. The body of the fastener is rectangular with 8 circular protrusions spaced equally aorund the edge. These protrusions, or knops, are integrally casrt rather than applied seperately and have been filed to shape, each being slightly different sizes and not completely circular. The central panel is decorated with a heart and three circular depressions below its point, all within a square border. All those feaures are etched roughly into the surface. The surface has traces of gilt. The central rectangular panel and the knops are in relief. The narrow, sunken border between these raised areas is decorated with etched zig-zag lines. The hook is fixed onto the lower half of the reverse.Two small scars remain where a seperate silver sheet would have been soldered onto it to create a fixing hook. Length:25mm. width: 11mm. Weight: 2.61g. Reference: Read, B. 2008. Hooked Clasps and Eyes. Page 60. Paralells on teh PAS database: SF-9C8492 and SF-3983.

NMS-AD538D: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Catch-piece or eye from a gilded silver post-medieval dress fastener. Circular, slightly convex body with filigree-style beaded wire border, decorated on the upper side with the filigree outline of a septfoil with concave petal-ends and central pellet. The reverse has a soldered-on eyelet made from flattened silver wire, with a larger eye projecting beyond the body to engage with the hook on the missing other half; and two smaller loops projecting to enable fixing to the strap or garment. The object appears to have pale gilding on the front. Dimensions: 14.5mm long, 10.1mm wide, weight 0.95g. Discussion: These objects are described and classified by Read 2008 as late medieval to post-medieval Class B, type 2 wire single blunt-hooked and eye clasps. For the filigree type he assigns a (stylistically based) 16th-century date. Date: circa AD1500-1600.

SUR-E68C57: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A gilded silver clothing fastener. It comprises a central circular frame which contains a projecting and facing bearded male head with drapery on his shoulders. Around the frame are three circular attachment loops, that below the head being larger than the remaining pair. It would probably have been used as an eye, with a matching hook.

LON-7C07D1: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A late Medieval - early Post Medieval silver hooked tag probably dating 15th - 16th century. The body of the hooked tag has been decoratively cast in the shape of a shell. The front is convex and the back is concave. Radiating linear lines provide the detail of the scallop shell. There are three sewing loops cast integrally to the body; one projecting from the outer edge and two either side of the junction of the hook with the body. The hook appears to have been soldered on as a separated piece to the body. The hook has a rounded rectangular cross section and tapers to the rounded point. There is a small hole in the body of the shell but this appears to be a casting flaw. A similar hooked tag with shell decoration is recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database - WILT-2D1AA7, this is the eye-piece through which a similar hook-piece would attach. That example is dated 15th - 16th century and there is the note "silver hooked tags of this period are relatively rare. Dora Thornton comments the scallop shell may be a family crest or personal device, and part of a set with the same design." Dimensions: length: 20.62mm; width: 9.89mm; thickness: 5.61mm; weight: 1.49g.

KENT-48B7D7: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast silver gilt 'looped' portion of a dress fastener, dating c.1500-1650. Description: The item is sub-triangular in shape and is formed from a chubby head with wings or vegetativeelements sprouting from the crown of the head. Above the head between the sprouting elements is a large open loop, into which the hook part of the garment fastener would slide. From the lower sides of head are two smaller attachment loops, through which thread would pass to sew the fastener into a garment. These are formed from acanthus or other vegetative loops sprouting from the side of the head and looping downwards and joining at the mouth. In between these two smaller loops is a small knop. The item appears to have been cast in moulded relief, and the detailing of the eyes nose and mouth and cheek are all clearly defined. The surface is gilded though much of this has worn off. The back of the fastener is flat, plain and undecorated. Measurements: 10.34mm wide, 13.04mm long, 2.82mm thick and 1g in weight. Discussion: There have been many examples of similar dress fasteners of this kind previously recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database. Most, however are more obviously cherubs, this example maybe intended to be a cherub looking out of foliage or a green man type figure. Most of them are silver gilt and have been declared Treasure. See records ESS-205795, BERK-B461DA, ESS-F12A68, DOR-9D6C65, ESS-FBAA23, SF-4908E1, HESH-09C581. Artefacts if this type can be compared with similar 16th century Tudor artefacts that were used as garment fasteners (Gaimster et. al. 2002) but were likely used through the following century.

FAKL-C12CB2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval dress hook, c.1550-1670, Read Class A Type 10, cast copper alloy, Oval plate with three integrally cast loops, the eye by which the hook was attached to its counterpart is missing. The face of the hook bears an oval panel of foliate decoration, now obscured by corrosion. Around this is a band of small ovals. Length 34.4mm, Width 21.7mm, Thickness 2.2mm, Mass 6.17g.

LEIC-8B4004: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Early post medieval copper alloy 'hook and eye' dress fastener, 34mm long, 27mm wide and 1mm thick with a weight of 4.10grams. The object is oval in form and rectangular in cross section. It has an incomplete rectangular projection at one end, which would have been curved at the end to form a hook. This sits above a slight collar with an incised line below it. There is a small triangular projection with a circular hole at each side, just below this. Opposing the rectangular projection is the remains of a circular attachment loop. Compare number 635 - 637 on page 169 of Read's Hooked Clasps and Eyes (2008) 1550-1700AD.

NMS-EDAEB2: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
SF4. Context 1046. Silver-gilt dress fastener. Length 13mm. Width 8mm. Weight 0.6g. Dress fastener consisting of a single piece of circular sectioned wire formed into a spiral 'figure of eight' which would have been sewn onto a garment, ending in a hook with a rounded end. The hook is applied to an incomplete decorative plate, upon which there is partly visible some filigree work. This type of dress hook is classified as a Read (2008) Class B Type 2, 3 or 4 (unknown which type as plate is incomplete; nos. 597-605). Early post-medieval. Read, B. 2008. Hooked-Clasps & Eyes. Portcullis Publishing

NMS-201722: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Late medieval or post-medieval silver, gilded dress fastener eye-plate. The plate is in the form of an elaborate trefoil, the side foils at right-angles to the central foil, each with a median rib and trefoil terminal, with one straight edge with a very narrow flange. There are two separately applied off-centre pellets. The plate is pierced twice behind the straight edge, with a pierced lobe at the terminal of the vertical foil for attachment. On the reverse is a separate soldered loop now broken in line with the straight edge but which would originally have extended beyond it to receive a hook. Measuring 13 x 15mm. Weight 1.6g. For broadly similar examples see NMS-2E7826, HESH-F4A941 and SF6610. 16th century. (field JB1)

A fragment of a silver dress fastener originally of trefoil form and of composite construction. What survives are two of three original domed elements in ropework frames, along with two of the three external pellets. A central circular aperture may have held a separate fitting. On the back are scars of the missing three-sided attachment bar.

ESS-EE381A: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Silver gilt post-medieval clothes fastener (eye clasp). The item is circular and partially damaged. There are two integral attachment loops and there would have been a third, though this is now missing. The larger of the two loops may have acted as the eyelet portion of the fastener, rather than as an attachment loop per se. The circular face of the clasp features raised moulded relief in the form of a human face. The reverse is flat and undecorated and bears a maker's mark, part of which is lost. The remaining mark reads 'T'. Dimensions: weight: 0.9g, length (including loops): 14.2mm, diameter: 8mm, thickness: 3mm There are several eye clasps with two smaller and one larger attachment loops that have been reported under the Treasure process and recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database. These include 2010 T255 (ESS-F12A68) and 2014 T832 (SF-4908E1); thee and others are commonly decorated on the front with an image of a cherub's head flanked by wings. There are examples of eye clasps of broadly similar form, though with attachments made of wire loop in Read (2008: 159 - 161). They are all dated to the Post-Medieval period.

SWYOR-72A0FC: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A late Medieval to post medieval silver mount or strap fitting or dress fastener probably dating from AD 1400 - 1650. It is broadly D shaped in plan, with the curved edge being scalloped, and the straight edge having concave corners. In the centre of the curved convex edge is a projecting lobe, extending outwards and projecting forwards. It is decorated with two grooves running along it making it fluted. The area of the mount to each side of this lobe, has four rounded lobes along the scalloped edge on each side. There is a rectangular hole below at the inner end of the projecting lobe. The straight edge is thinner than the rest of the mount. The change in thickness occurs about half way along the rectangular hole. The reverse is undecorated and has two integral rivets evenly spaced in the centre of each scalloped area, each with a slightly burred over end. The curved lines cast on the back of the object suggest it was made in a cuttlefish mould. The mount is 13.5mm long, 17.4mm wide; 5.3mm thick and weighs 1.9g. The mount is similar in style to WILT-5F8359 , KENT-FEE744 (2014 T641), SUR-70A2EF (2019 T394), LANCUM-8C13DC (2016 T846) and SWYOR-8AAB23 (2015 T781). They all have two integral rivets and the same overall shape, but most have circular holes and all have different designs. Compare also a similar Post Medieval eye from a hook and eye clasp on page 207, no. 750. of Read B. 2008. This example is also early post medieval and has a square eye The mount is also reminiscent of the hooked and eye clasps illustrated on page 184 and 185 dating from the early 17th century. See also

BM-136139: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post-medieval gilded silver dress fastener with a finely cast oval cartouche, with relief decoration of an elongated renaissance style female head with unusual headdress. This has an elaborate border with fleur-de-lis at the top and bottom, and a trefoil on both sides. The reverse displays file marks, a slightly sunken circular centre, and a broken double-strand wire hook attached by solder. A loop or hook is missing, where it projected from the side of the plate. This item is not similar to other examples dated to the 16th or 17th century, and so with no comparable material it is not securely dateable pre-1704.

NMS-DC3BDB: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Gilded silver eye or catchpiece from a dress fastener, cast in one piece. The solid centre is triangular, with a raised (perhaps plain wire) border and sunken centre; this is filled with three raised or plain wire circles around a central pellet. At each corner is a partial rosette or trefoil, with a central pellet and three petals with sunken centres; where the fourth petal would be is taken up by the corner of the triangle. In the centre of one of the triangle's edges is a large loop forming the eye; this is D-shaped externally and almost circular internally. On the other two sides, offset towards the apex, are smaller more circular loops for sewing the catchpiece on to the clothing. The reverse is flat and a little scratched. Dimensions: Length 13.5mm, width 11.6mm, maximum thickness (at central pellet) 2.6mm. Weight as recorded by finder, 1.09g. Discussion: This dress fastener appears to have been cast in one piece, but is related to composite examples made from wire filigree soldered to backplates, such as NMS-57F66D (2014T597). NMS-5BF876 (2018T231) is a close parallel, though incomplete; other slightly more distant parallels include SUSS-3C97C2 (2011T520) and ESS-D07BAE (2014T724). Date: Parallels, and the three-circle motif, all date to the 16th century AD.

NMS-0DFAF4: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Incomplete post medieval silver dress fastener of Read’s (2008) Class B, Type 2. It consists of a plate with a twisted-wire filigree border running around the edge; the plate is circular, but with a curved cut-out forming part of the eye, making the plate almost crescentic.​​ Within the border are are three plain wire filigree trefoils alternating with two irregularly shaped loops of wire with bulbous, rounded ends. In the centre is a wire filigree sexfoil surrounding an irregular perforation, probably post-depositional damage rather than deliberate. On the back a piece of wire has been bent and soldered into place to create two small circular attachment loops at the back and one long loop at the front (the eye). Dimensions: Length: 17.3mm, diameter: 13.6mm, thickness: 1.8mm, weight: 0.63g. Discussion: A number of similar examples have been reported as Treasure and are recorded on the PAS database. The closest parallel is NMS-7B0FBE (2015T316), which has the same crescent-shaped plate but a different pattern of filigree. Other circular plates include NMS-53F8D3 (2013 T452), BH-0174E0 (2006 T584), LVPL-287125 (2016 T528) & SUSS-4280BE (2015 T998). Read (2008, 159-60) discusses a number of similar examples and ascribes a 16th – 17th century date range. Date: c. AD 1500 - 1650.

NMS-B24918: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Post-medieval blunt-hooked fastener made from a single piece of silver. The plate is a fleur-de-lis shape, with a large central lozengiform lobe and two much smaller back-to-back C-shaped lobes below. The lis sits above two quarter-circle projections, one to either side, with the curve above and the straight edge below. All of the edges of the plate have a filed sharp bevel, the tool marks from which survive. The plate is not quite flat, but is V-shaped in cross-section, with a central longitudinal angle; on the reverse of this is a groove, suggesting that the plate was scored and then creased longitudinally to make the centre sit slightly proud of the surface to which it was mounted. The apex of the lis has a small circular hole, about 1.7mm in diameter, and there are two 1.5mm diameter holes at the waist of the lis; all of these holes are carelessly set, not quite centrally and not quite in line with each other. Across the waist of the lis there are tension and compression cracks on both front and reverse, suggesting that at some stage it has been damaged and bent across this transverse axis too. The quarter-circle projections together form a semi-circular shape. Below this a rectangular-section are projects, curving round to form a forward-facing hook with a rounded end. The up-turned part of the hook is marked with the upper-case initials .H.D. formed from many individual round dot punch marks, alternating with three similar single centrally placed dots. The initials are the right way up when the object is held with the hook to the left and the plate to the right. Dimensions: The fastener is 35.7mm long. The plate is 19.5mm wide and the hook is 7.4mm wide. The hook brings the maximum overall thickness up to 7.4mm, and the plate is made from metal c. 0.85mm thick. It weighs 4.12g. Discussion and Date: There are a few blunt-hooked fasteners or eyes in the shape of fleurs-de-lis, such as SOM-D813E5 (2012T50) or NMS-BE9490, but both of these have relief decoration and neither is a particularly close parallel. Despite the lack of precise parallels, the general features of this object fit well into the large group of 17th-century blunt-hooked fasteners, and the technique of making the initials out of punched dots is found on other 17th-century items such as spoons (NMS-BBABD0, LEIC-FB4A8A, etc) and pins (LANCUM-B6BB15).

CORN-84E3C3: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
An incmplete post-medieval copper-alloy hooked clasp, probably dating to c. AD 1600-1700. It is the eye section of the two part hooked clasp. The object has a central circular plate, very slightly convex with a hollow back. From one side expands an integral rectangular attachment loop, now vestigial, with a round integral perforated lug opposite, broken through. Two further rounded lugs expand from the edge of the plate at 11 o'clock and 7 o'clock relative to the orientation of the decoration (with the attachment loop and pointed lug being at 9 and 3 o'clock respectively). The front of the plate is cast in low relief with a depiction of an Irish harp within a wreath. Dimensions: length 29.5 mm; width 28 mm; thickness 1.8 mm; weight 8.93 g. Read (2008, 167-168, nos 621-623) publishes near identical examples as part of his Class A, Type 1, mostly from Somerset and Devon. This group is generally dated to the 17th century and Read notes an association with Civil War battle sites. It is likely these were used by those on the parliamentary side, perhaps in combination with known hook pieces bearing St George's cross, the combination of St George's cross and the Irish Harp being a parliamentary symbol later used on the coinage of the Commonwealth as well as flags (see Robinson 1999).

LEIC-D4A015: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Post Medieval copper alloy dress hook, 40mm long, 22mm wide and 1.5mm thick. The object is in fair condition with a brown patina and weighs 3.89 grams. It is flat and consists of an oval shield which has two circular fixing loops, 3mm in diameter, sitting on either side of a rectangular fixing loop, 12mm wide and 8mm deep. at the opposite end are the remains of a third fixing loop which has snapped. The shield is decorated with the Arms of St George with a raised cross in its centre flanked on the left by a palm border and the right by a laureal wreath. Class A, Type 8. The loops suggests that it is part of a hook and eye style fastener. B Read, 2008, Pg. 177, No.675. See Robinson (1999) for similar artefacts decorated with the Commonwealth Arms

OXON-234326: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A cast silver gilt looped portion of a post-medieval dress fastener. The item is sub-triangular in shape and is formed of the head and wings of a cherub. Below the head is a large open D-shaped loop, into which the hook part of the garment fastener would slide. Above the head are two smaller sub-circular attachment loops, through which thread would pass to sew the fastener into a garment. In between these two smaller loops is a small knop on the top of the head. Although in an un-cleaned condition, much of the detail of the cherub's face and the feathers of the wings are clear. The reverse is flat and plain although diagonal file marks are quite visible. The dress fastener is gilded on its outer surface but a metallic silver colour on its reverse. Dimensions: The dress fastener is 13.7mm high, 14mm wide, 2.2mm thick and weighs 1.2 grams. Discussion: There have been many examples of dress fasteners of this kind previously recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database. See for instance ESS-205795, BERK-B461DA, ESS-F12A68, DOR-9D6C65, ESS-FBAA23, SF-4908E1, HESH-09C581. These are regularly compared to similar 16th-century Tudor garment fasteners (Gaimster et. al. 2002) and are silver gilt so have been declared Treasure. Conclusion: The object is a minimum of 10% precious metal and is over 300 years old. Consequently, it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996 in terms of both age and precious metal content.

NMS-E02E1C: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Incomplete medieval or early post-medieval silver mount or dress fastener. One edge has a recessed flange terminating in an old break at one end. The rest of the object consists of a moulded design around a central hole or eye, now incomplete due to old breaks. The decoration appears to comprise two opposed S-shaped tendrils, each terminating in a trefoil. The reverse exhibits traces of parallel grooves indicating the object was cast in a cuttlefish bone mould. The reverse has a single integrally cast rivet with a burred-over end. Dimensions: Length: 20.1mm, width: 15.6mm, thickness: 4.7mm, weight: 2g. Discussion: A number of similar examples have been reported as Treasure and are recorded on the PAS database. The closest parallel is perhaps SUSS-C924F4 (2009T189); others include SWYOR-72A0FC (2019T70), CORN-F0CA99 (2015T937), GLO-09DDC4 (2011T905), BUC-C113E6 (2010T241), BUC-D47F44 (2003T74). Date: c. AD 1400 - 1625.

ESS-670939: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
A complete silver Post Medieval hooked dress fastener. It is circular in shape with twisted silver wire filigree decoration on the outer face. This consists of a double wire border with four circles arranged in a quatrefoil in the middle. To the reverse is the remains of the hook which has broken off. Dimensions: length: 7.7mm, width: 6.4mm, thickness: 1.6mm, weight: 0.16g Discussion: LVPL-033E25 is an exact parallel on the database and was submitted for consideration as treasure (Treasure case tracking number: 2007T613). SF-BBAB39 is a similar example which was also submitted for consideration as treasure (Treasure case tracking number: 2015T710) and includes the following discussion: ‘This fastener belongs to Read's (2008, 159-160) early post-medieval Class B, Type 2, which he assigned to the 16th and 17th century. This is a small group of which little is still known. This example is particularly similar to his no.598 (2007 T613, LVPL-033E25, although he labels it T379) and no.599 (treasure case 2006 T584, BH-0174E0).’

NMGW-7ECFB8: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Copper alloy ring of uncertain date, possibly a Late Bronze Age dress-fastener The ring is near-complete, with minimal peripheral damage to one of the terminals (with an overall height of 47.8mm and a weight of 99.1g). The terminals are joined but there is a fracture between the two sides (giving the object an overall width of 76.9mm). The terminals are circular but are irregular (with a diameter of 40mm) and are angled upwards towards the midpoint. The underside of the terminals have a crescent-shaped bevel on the outer edges, elsewhere the underside is concave and appears unfinished from casting. At the centre of each terminal are raised stubs around a rectangular depression (5.3mm long by 1.3mm wide), presumably the remnants of where the jet was removed, although it remains uncertain why the casting left rectangular depressions. The upper faces of the terminals have a raised edge defined by an internal groove. The finished edge does not continue onto the inner side of the terminals. The faces are convex, growing deeper towards the hoop (with a thickness of 6mm). There is a semicircular moulding around the hoop on both terminals (19mm long, 15mm wide and 1mm deep). The hoop (with a maximum external width of 60.2mm and internal: 44.1mm wide by 29.7mm high) is of oval section and is widest and deeper near the terminals (at 14mm wide and 9mm deep) and narrows to the midpoint of the hoop (7mm wide and 7mm deep). There are no discernible wear facets around the hoop. The inner face of the hoop has a casting flaw near one terminal, resulting from an air bubble. The surface of the copper alloy is pitted with a mid-brown patina and a silvery sheen, probably because of tin leaching, leading to surface enrichment.

NMS-5BF876: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Incomplete post-medieval gilded silver dress fastener cast in one piece. The plate has a central triangle outlined with a plain ridge and filled with a trefoil with a central pellet. At each corner of the triangle is a trefoil knop with a central pellet. Projecting from one edge is an integrally cast circular loop. On the reverse, opposite the loop, are traces of extra metal, perhaps solder from where a sewing loop was attached to the plate, either through composite construction or via a repair. Dimensions: Extant length 15.1mm, width 12.1mm, thickness 2.1mm, weight 0.7g. Discussion: Similar gilded silver examples with integral loops are rare. Read illustrates just one (2008, 207, no. 751) which is a reasonable parallel; this is also published in the Treasure Annual Report for 2004 (2004T183), but is not yet recorded on the PAS database. SUSS-3C97C2 (2011T520) is another fairly close parallel, with a triangular centre and trefoil knops; ESS-D07BAE (2014T724) is more distant. All have three sewing loops, suggesting that these may be broken off this example. Date: c. AD 1550 - 1600.

NMS-6858CD: DRESS FASTENER (DRESS)
Description: Incomplete silver mount or dress fastener. One half (the lower half) is flat and undecorated with a curving lower edge. The other half has decoration of two high-relief C-shaped scrolls with their backs towards the flat half and their points upwards The point of one scroll has been lost, but the surviving scroll is open at the top, and appears to be in the shape of a flat ribbon which is wound up at either end, and the inner end bound to the inner end of the other scroll. Between the two scrolls, and partly within both halves, is a sub-oval or drop-shaped central perforation with the point upwards. Curving ridges on the flat reverse show that the object was cast in a mould made from cuttlefish bone. The reverse originally had two integral circular-section rivets, one to either side of the central hole. The surviving rivet is at the base of the complete surviving scroll, but the other rivet has been torn away, causing a bend to the metal. Dimensions: Surviving width c. 19mm, length 15mm. Thickness of flat half c. 1.2mm, thickness of high-relief half away from rivet 3.5mm, thickness including rivet 5mm. The central hole measures 5.3 x 4.0mm and the object weighs 2.59g. Discussion: This object fits well into a group of small mounts which are thought to be dress fasteners of eyelet type, although no corresponding hook has ever been identified. Most are a little larger than this one, although all are small; most have the same cuttlefish marks on the reverse. All have holes and integral rivets, and most have two distinct halves with different decoration and often different thicknesses. Most appear to be individually designed, with NMS-E02E1C and WMID-7B3FCA having some similar elements to this one. Other good examples include NMGW-E31CD0, SWYOR-191BF9, LANCUM-8C13DC and SUR-70A2EF. Egan and Pritchard discuss what may be analogous flimsy copper-alloy items found in late 14th-century contexts (1991, nos. 1199-1201), comparing them to a rather closer (but still copper-alloy) parallel found in the River Thames (fig. 141). One of Egan and Pritchard’s examples was found in place on an unperforated strap. Date: Despite the parallel from a late 14th-century context, these items tend to fit better into 16th-century fashions and despite their small numbers they may have been used over a long period of time, c. 1350-c. 1550 at least.