MEDIEVAL BROOCH

1250

An incomplete cast copper alloy annular brooch in the form of a miniature coronet with remains of white enamel, dating from the 13th/ 14th century between AD 1250 – 1400 (diameter: 28mm; thickness: 6mm; weight: 6.13g).This artefact has six collared circular bosses, placed at regular intervals on the front side of the brooch frame, three of which have remains of white enamel (probably). The other three bosses are now empty. In between these bosses, there are five small raised platforms with multiple worn incised lines (approximately six incised lines on each platform). Additionally, there is a restriction in the frame between two other bosses where an incomplete probable iron pin remains (length: 19mm). When complete, the pin would have been held in place through fabric and notched on the opposing side of the buckle frame.The back of the brooch is undecorated, although badly worn in areas. Overall, the brooch is in a worn but fair condition with a dark green/ brown patina.A similar example (although set with blue glass pellets) is illustrated in Margeson, S, 1993, ‘Norwich Households: Medieval and Post-Medieval Finds from Norwich Survey Excavations 1971-78’, pages 14-16, plate V & ref no 58, dating from AD 1275-1400.