STRAP END 954972

Description: 2019T498; Not Treasure, returned to finder. Description: A copper-alloy early medieval strap-end, sub-rectangular in plan, with convex sides and a zoomorphic terminal. The attachment end is cusped, with two rounded lobes, and is slip transversely. Each cusp has a central circular perforation, although any rivets have been lost. The strap-end features engraved decoration; the attachment end features lentoid eyes separated by a waisted field of incised longitudinal lines, surmounted by two ovoid ears, both in slight relief with incised chevrons. The plate of the strap-end is divided into four fields, symmetrical on the longitudinal median line, with a lentoid field along either longitudinal edge and a triangular field filling the space at the attachment and terminal ends. Each lentoid field depicts two opposed, reserved bipeds looking back over their shoulder. The triangular field at the attachment end features a reserved foliate motif, with two scrolled volutes at the broad end, whilst that at the terminal end is filled with three consecutive chevrons. The attachment end is decorated with an incised convex line, opening towards the attachment end, with two incised oblique lines within, converging at the indent at the centre of the attachment end. The incised decoration retains traces of a white metal inlay. The reverse is undecorated. Dimensions: Length 54.2mm; Width 13.1 mm; Thickness 2.9 mm; Weight 9.74g. Discussion: This strap-end fits into Thomas’ (2003) Type A1, decorated in the Trewhiddle style. Numerous examples are recorded on the PAS database in both copper alloy and silver. Non-destructive X-ray fluorescence analysis of the surface of the strap-end identified the metal as an alloy of copper, tin, zinc and lead, with traces of other elements including arsenic. A trace amount of silver was detected, but significantly less than 10% precious metal. It is therefore not Treasure as defined under the terms of the Act. The silvery-black inlay was also analysed and found to contain mostly silver, with some sulphur also detected, suggesting it is likely to be niello. With thanks to Dr. Duncan Hook (British Museum) for his comments on this piece. Conclusion: The artefact appear to be more than 300 years old but contains less than 10% precious metal , and as such it does not qualify as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996. Wil Partridge Finds Liaison Officer, Wiltshire Portable Antiquities Scheme Dr. Sue Brunning Curator, European Early Medieval Collections British Museum

Date: 800 - 950

Object type: STRAP END

Last import: September 22, 2022