EARLY MEDIEVAL MOUNT

1000

A complete cast copper-alloy mount of late Early-Medieval date (11th century). The mount is flat, long and kite-shaped, with an openwork design consisting of two central triangular cells (base to base, one above the other when held vertically) pointing to two circular perforations, one at the top and one at the bottom, possibly rivet holes.The front has a double border in Ringerike-style engraving between the perforations and the elaborately shaped edge. At either end is a large rounded knob standing proud of both front and reverse. Above the lower knob is a small rectangular projection to either side, then long flaring edges up to a rectangular cut-out on either side. Above this, the corners have trefoil projections, then there is a tiny pointed project on each side below the upper knob.The reverse is undecorated. The metal has a mid reddish-brown patin, often found on Ringerike-style objects, and is worn. The mount is 64.1mm long, 22.9mm wide, 6.6mm thick and weighs 20.6g.m