EARLY MEDIEVAL GAMING PIECE

850

Lead alloy game piece, as kindly identified by the finder. Cast sub-rectangular concavo-convex object with a central ridged mould line; a small projection from this is perhaps a stub of casting sprue. Patinated overall. The shape now resembles a miniature bread loaf of modern type, perhaps as the result of crushing. One side is also indented, probably again as a result of adventitious damage. This object was found close to a castellated playing piece (NLM-7ABE36) considered to be for the game of Tafl, and the size and form of the two objects is so similar as to suggest they come from the same set. This plainer piece would be an 'pawn' piece to be deployed on either side of the board game of Hnafetafl, as either a defender or pursuer of the more distinctive king. Suggested date: Early Medieval, 900-1100.Length: 17.6mm, Width: 12.5mm, Height: 11.2mm, Thickness (wall): 2.9mm, Weight: 9.19gms.