File:Early medieval strap end (FindID 979050).jpg

English: An incomplete cast copper alloy strap end dating from the Early Medieval period, c. AD 750-900.

The strap end is flattened in cross section and an elongated pointed oval in plan, with breaks particularly visible at the attachment end. The break has removed the area where the attachment rivets would once have been placed. It is decorated with a zoomorphic motif, the clearest parts of which depict two curved ears which join at either end of a deep curving V-shape. This line continues via a small cruciform shape before ending in the centre of what seems to be a long snout which is peppered with pellets, possibly indicating whiskers. There are two additional curving lines which veer inwards from the edges before returning to them in a loose semi-circle, suggesting a dished face, perhaps that of a horse. Behind the ears is an extended isosceles triangle shape, which is surrounded by pellets, possibly intended to represent a mane. If the animal is intended to be equine,the cruciform shape could be intended as a forelock or decorative harness fitting. The reverse is plain and undecorated.

This is an example of Thomas (2003: 3-4) Class 2, Type A (decorated) strap ends, dating to the later Early Medieval period. BUC-FFA3FF represents similar curving ears and a similar shape, while horses are represented in a variety of forms on a number of examples including WMID-A58487 and, more elaborately and clearly, HESH-F1F43D.

Measurements: 43.2mm length, 12.1mm width, 4.2mm thickness, weight 7.8g.