File:Copper-Alloy S Shaped Snake Belt Hook (FindID 279539).jpg

English: A copper-alloy S shaped strap fitting and two chain links. This is probably a snake form belt hook of Post-Medieval date. For more information on this form of belt hook see Bailey, G. 2001, p.20-21. The two chain links are undecorated; the 'S' shaped hook has decoration of identical quality on both sides, neither side indicating more wear against one surface than the other. Although referred to as a snake form belt hook, the heads on this example are in the form of a beast, both dragon and hound have been suggested. The heads are definitely not in the form of a snake due to the presence of a rounded ear on the top of each head. The snout curves upward and the mouth and eye are detailed. Decoration peters out on the neck from behind the back of the head. As with example BUC-A5B193, the centre comprises of a pellet that forms the centre of a plant motif. Two detailed leaves project along the body of the 'S' from either side of the pellet until they taper to a point. As is the case with several of the examples illustrated in Bailey, G. 2001, one of the beast heads bends in to touch the edge of the centre point, while the other bends round to complete the hook shape but makes no attempt to meet the centre point. The beast head that bends into the centre on this hook is positioned to bite the small side petal. The surface may have been tinned. The belt hook might have some military connection. The artefact weights 11.44g. The hook is 30.29mm long, 18.22mm wide and 5.90mm thick. The links have an outer diameter of 15.55mm and internal diameter of 11.28 and are 2.30mm thick. This gives an overall length of 50.53mm when all of the links are pulled taught.