EARLY MEDIEVAL STIRRUP

1000

A cast copper alloy stirrup strap mount, classified by David Williams as a Class A, Type 1 (length: 46.1mm; width: 29.2mm; thickness at centre: 4.1mm; thickness at base: 9.1mm; weight: 26.87g). A very corroded but complete (except the rivets) example of what is a common type of mount. The pointed tip at the top of the mount still has the apex loop (diameter: 3.2mm) beneath as well as two slight triangular pointed projections to either side. Half way down the mount, there are two more larger pointed projections opposite even other. Additonally, another two smaller pointed tips protrude out from the sides opposite each other near the base and just above the two rivet holes (diameter: 2.9mm) near the base. Neither of the rivets (which were originally probably made of iron) remain. The flange is Type A: the common right angle flange, as classified by Williams, 1997, 25. There is no visible decoration on the front or back of the mount. It may not have been decorated, and if it was, it may have only been engraved. The front surface is also too worn to identify any markings. Generally, the mount is in a poor and corroded condition with a patchy dark green-red patina. Only traces of the original patina survive on the front.The Class A mounts are mainly pentagonal in form and each usually have an individual design by either engraving or punching into the surface. Sixty-two Type 1 mounts are illustrated in Williams, 1997 and most of the best examples come from southern England. A general distribution sweeps from the south west of England up to North Lincolnshire. There is also a large concentration in Norfolk and Suffolk.This example dates to the 11th century AD.