From Traprain Law, East Lothian
000-100-102-558-C © National Museums Scotland |
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Spear Butt
A spear butt, also known as a ferrule, is a metal ring, tube or cap placed over the end of a shaft to give it extra strength. This bronze example was found at the native hillfort of Traprain Law in East Lothian. It was used sometime between 0 and 400 AD.
The spear butt has a bronze socket ending in an iron tip. Below the mouth of the socket there is a small rivet hole. The iron is very corroded.
Spear butts come in a number of forms. Many resemble doorknobs, others, as in the case here, are more elongated. They protected the end of the spear, and may also have created a sound when the spear was shaken.
Record details
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Online ID: |
000-100-102-558-C |
Image Rights Holder: |
National Museums Scotland |
Project: |
0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project |
Ref: |
National Museums Scotland X.GVM 406 |
Date: |
0 - 400 AD Between 0 and 400 AD
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Material: |
Bronze; conical iron point with iron pin projecting; pin put inside bronze socket
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Dimensions: |
3.94" L; mouth 0.56" interior D
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What: |
Ferrule, spear
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Subject: |
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Who: |
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Where: |
Scotland, East Lothian, Traprain Law
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Event: |
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Description: |
Bronze spear ferrule with a conical iron point, from Traprain Law, 0 - 400 AD
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References: |
- MacGregor, Morna. Early Celtic art in North Britain. Leicester: Leicester University Press, 1976, vol. 1, p. 85; vol. 2, no. 185.
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