Strap fastener

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This enamelled bronze strap fastener was found at the site of the native hillfort at Traprain Law in East Lothian. It was used, probably on harness equipment, sometime during the first two centuries AD.

The enamel decoration is missing in places.

Leather on harnesses rarely survives, but the metal fittings and ornaments are often preserved. Some of the fittings, such as this one, resemble fasteners used on clothing, and were presumably used where decoration rather than strength was wanted.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-039-937-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.GVM 230
• Date: Between 0 and 200 AD
  
• Material: Bronze, enamel; square plate; triangular loop; plate enamelled with oval and triangular spaces of blue and red enamel
  Fastener
  
• Dimensions: 30 mm L
  
• What: Fastener
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, East Lothian, Traprain Law
  
• Event:
• Description: Elaborate button-and-loop fastener of bronze with square plate with oval and triangular spaces of blue and red enamel, from Traprain Law
  
• References:
  • Burley, Elizabeth. Metal-work from Traprain Law. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland 89 (1955-1956), 118-226, esp. no. 230, p. 180. 
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