File:Medieval Purse Frame Fragment (FindID 486867).jpg

English: A fragment of an unidentified cast copper alloy gilded object, of probable Medieval to Post Medieval date (c. 1200-1700 AD). The remains consist of a shaft with a crudely facetted end-knop and arm which is narrow at the knop and slightly widens in diameter towards the other end, now broken. Traces of gilding still remain on the surface of the shaft in patches and the copper alloy varies between an overall reddish-brown colour and a light green colour in areas with remains of gilding. The object measures 51.48 mm long, with an end-knop diameter of approximately 9 mm and a broken end diameter of 8 mm; the shaft diameter increases from approximately 6 mm in diameter to 7.30 mm. After consultation with specialist David Williams, the previously considered identification of purse bar frame has been discounted. Although solid purse frame arms have been identified from the Medieval period (cf. Wheeler 1967, pp167-171), the shape of this one and the fact that it is gilded suggest that the fragment was part of another type of decorative fitting. The object's identification remains uncertain.