VESSEL 184736

Description: A slightly corroded zoomorphic cast copper-alloy spout probably from a ewer of later medieval or early post-medieval date. The spout is tubular and terminates in a dog's head with open mouth; the tube spout protrudes from the open mouth (internal diameter: c. 4.3mm). At the other end it curves through ninety degrees downwards, and expands into a long, pointed neck where it would have joined the vessel (it is tear shaped in cross-section). The head has a moulded nose, prominent, squared brow, and shallow, rectangular grooved ears that protrude very slightly above the head; the eyes are not distinguished. The copper alloy now has an uneven, dark green patina. The spout's tubes are full of concretions which seemingly feature both bronze and iron; perhaps this piece was mis-cast and unfinished. A fixed spout from a pedestal-base ewer can be found illustrated in Lewis (1987, 4-5; fig. 8a). It dates to the 15th century and was found in the moat at Cardiff Castle. Further spouts recorded on this database (e.g. BERK-135A64, HESH-752594, WAW-D138E8) attest to their standardised design and high volume of manufacture.

Date: 1400 - 1550

Object type: VESSEL

Last import: August 15, 2017