MEDIEVAL STRAP END

1400

Very large medieval/post medieval strap-end or dress fastener, formed from folded rectangular sheet with elaborate engraved decoration and two probably heart-shaped apertures on the front face. The engraving includes straight border and transverse lines, curving lines and circles. The apertures are incomplete and the attachment edge is damaged. A small stub, probably of wire, projects from the fold near one end. There is no other trace of this but there are three other holes in the fold. Perhaps related to repoussé decorated fasteners such as Norwich Households no. 245. 35 x 48mm. 15th – 16th century.