An extremely rare medieval sword-belt hanger dating to the 14th century. This component would have been riveted to a leather sword-belt allowing the owner to hang the scabbard of his sword from it. Generally these artefacts have little or no decoration and are of purely functional design. This example is highly decorative indicating the high status of its original owner. The middle of the hanger forms a prominent hexafoil, within each circle is a six petalled flower radiating from the central rose, red and blue enamel remains in the field around the design. The entire surface was originally gilded - some of which remains. The terminal of the hook takes the form of a tiny zoomorphic beasts head. It is incredible to imagine that in all likelihood this object once adorned the belt of a medieval knight - I wonder if it has seen battle? A fantastic and rare piece of British medieval history worthy of further research, I have never seen a parallel. Found by metal detectorist in Yorkshire.

Dimensions: 71 mm x 20 mm.

Reference: Benet's Artefacts of England and the United Kingdom, Third Edition: M05-0401.