MEDIEVAL STUD

Medieval gilt copper alloy stud, probably from harness or furniture: disc-headed with a bent sub rectangular-sectioned (4.5 x 4mm) spike on the reverse. The large discoidal head has engraved curvilinear lines forming either an uncertain motif, or a possible Arabic cursive inscription, containing remains of black enamel or niello. There is an engraved zig-zag concentric bordering line, and traces of zig-zag lines outlining some of the inscription. A similar example from excavations on Norwich Castle is illustrated in E. Shepherd Popescu Norwich Castle: Excavations and Historical Survey, 1987-98 Part II EAA 132 (2009), 816-7, fig.10.23, SF6139, where it is described as a post-medieval button. Diameter of head 26mm. Thickness of head 2mm. Length of spike (unbent) 25mm. Later 12th-13th century. The possible Arabic script could be read as ''akbar' or 'great' from 'God is most great'. However, Venetia Porter of the British Museum comments: 'These could be random Arabic letters but can't say for certain. I can see what you mean about potentially akbar but I have never seen it written like this and no very obvious Allah. In an Islamic context - not sure what would have been its function wi