MEDIEVAL BOOK FITTING

1300

Medieval gilt copper alloy book clasp with two rivets in split end, central hole and a terminal loop. The rectangular split end is engraved with perimeter line and a pair of triangles. Beyond a pair of opposed, moulded trapezoidal cut-outs and small projections the tongue-shaped object is decorated with rocker-arm engraving around the central hole and there are twp moulded notches on both sides before the loop. This piece is unusual in being non-hinged and rectangular at the split end, and in incorporating an integral split for the strap. Length 39mm. Width 15.5mm. Length of spilt socket 11.5mm. 14th century.