File:Iron Age copper alloy axle-cap (FindID 284898).jpg

English: This is a continuous cast bronze hoop around the external circumference of which emanate prominent integral spikes, with circular sections and rounded tips, each approximately 28mm long. These are arranged in two aligned radial arrays, each originally of ten spikes. One array has six complete, two damaged and two absent spikes, while the other has four near complete, two damaged and four absent spikes. The section of the band has a double D-shaped profile, giving a bi-convex external hoop surface with a central constriction running around the circumference. Defining the hoop margins and running along the central constriction are three thickened or slightly projecting decorative bands 3.0-4.0mm wide. Incised into the central zone of each, is a geometric ladder pattern, 1.0-1.5mm wide and running around the whole circumference. These provide defined borders to each of the two zones of spikes. Wearing is visible on these projecting bands, suggesting the artefact saw use.

The shaping of the piece and the execution of the decorative bands is irregular, giving slight meanders and width variations. The external surfaces, including the spikes, are covered with striations with slight facets visible, suggesting that the original casting was extensively filed down to required contours and further defining the three prominent decorative bands. Contained within most of the hollow spikes are concave surfaced ‘plugs’ of grey, non-metallic material, possibly fired clay. These may be remains of the mould casting, which were left within the finished artefact.

Three of the damaged spikes have broken tips. The fourth has a hole down one side and this break was probably caused by a thinning and imperfection in the casting. Another largely complete spike has a similar but small casting imperfection. Discontinuous cracks are visible around the bases of many of the spikes, while absent spikes have broken cleanly around their bases at this point of weakness. One side of the hoop shows differential damage, three absent spikes in sequence bordered by damaged spikes in one array, near to two absent spikes in the other. The artefact has a grey brown coloured patination, with no recently exposed breaks or areas of bronze visible.