Medieval

Small treasures bearing the traces of history Rare Medieval Crusader-Era Bronze Knight’s Belt Fitting – Claw Motif (Unguis), Converted into a Pendant Description Considered within a medieval Crusader-era context and dated to approximately the 12th–15th centuries, this bronze belt fitting combines historic dress culture with relief metalwork. Its rectangular body, scalloped lower edge and upper decorative band create a distinctive form. Two attachment strips preserved on the reverse reflect its interpretation as a belt or strap fitting. The central three-branched, claw-like relief is considered through an eagle-talon interpretation, with the Latin term unguis describing its claw character. Eagle legs and claws occur among the heraldic badges of the Stanley family. The Metropolitan Museum’s Roof Angel with the Stanley Crest, dated ca. 1485–1504, provides a broader comparison for the eagle’s place in aristocratic representation. Auction catalogues also record 14th–15th-century bronze belt mounts decorated with eagles and lion heads, offering comparative context for zoomorphic ornament on medieval dress accessories. Subsequently pierced at the top and converted into a pendant, the piece preserves successive stages of use. Such antique accessories are significant for bringing together everyday dress, personal representation and craftsmanship. Its surviving relief and reverse fittings give the object particular historical interest and collecting appeal. Object Type: Decorated Belt Fitting, Subsequently Converted into a Pendant Culture: Medieval European / Crusader-Era Context Period: Medieval Crusader Era Date Range: ca. 12th–15th Century AD Material: Metal Alloy, Probably Bronze Technique: Casting, Relief Decoration and Surface Finishing; Later Piercing for Suspension Form: Rectangular Plate with a Scalloped Lower Edge, Raised Central Motif and Two Horizontal Attachment Strips on the Reverse Symbolism: Stylised Claw-like Motif (Unguis) Considered within the Context of Medieval Zoomorphic Ornament Condition: Preserved Overall Form, Distinct Relief Decoration and Reverse Attachment Strips; Surface Wear and Patina, with a Subsequently Added Suspension Hole Dimensions Height: 38.28 mm ± Width: 31.22 mm ± Depth: 8.02 mm ± Weight: 16.31 g ± Note Please consult the measurements to appreciate the piece’s actual size. Photographic framing can make objects of different dimensions appear similar in size. Buyers wishing to receive a printed Cultural and Iconographic Assessment Certificate may submit their request before shipment. Every shipment is dispatched with full insurance coverage. Differences in shipping charges for certain countries reflect the country-specific costs of this insured service. Warm, museum-inspired lighting was chosen to bring out the object’s surface texture, form, craftsmanship and historic character naturally. Suspension cords and other display accessories visible in the photographs complement the presentation and are not included in the sale. Information Surface details have been documented using high-resolution equipment. The object’s form and structural integrity have been preserved, with photographic adjustments limited to minor colour balancing. Museum-standard technical photographs may be supplied to interested collectors during the auction. If requested before shipment, an expert assessment report and a signed ownership document prepared in the buyer’s name can be provided in PDF format within 3–5 business days. When identifying an archaeological object, experienced museum specialists and archaeologists consider its known find context, material, form and symbols alongside museum examples and academic research; appropriate advanced laboratory examinations can provide additional scientific insight into specific questions concerning material, manufacture and dating. The stated period, original function, symbolic meaning and material reflect academic assessments supported by typological comparisons and expert opinions. Advanced scientific analyses are separate examinations conducted beyond the scope of the sale. Scholarly consistency, transparent communication and good faith guide every presentation; no object is knowingly offered as a copy or imitation.

Estimate:$224.08

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