A cast copper-alloy book clasp (hook piece) of late Medieval date, probably 14th-15th century.

The clasp is sub-rectangular in plan, with a flaring split end decorated in a feather motif that would attach to a leather strap. The hook is semi-cylindrical

The top of the clasps is decorated with three holes running across the width of the clasp near the base of the feather decoration of the split end. Just off centre of the top of the clasp is a stamped circle and dot motif, with a hollow circle in the centre and raised circumscribing circle set within the clasp plate. A collar runs across the width of the clasp end, and simple incised lines arranged in a chevron shape occur behind the collar. Another rivet is placed between the chevron decoration and the circle and dot decoration.

The underside of the clasp is undecorated

PAS link

A copper alloy book clasp hook piece, probably of post-Medieval date. The clasp consists of a flat rectangular , with a projecting hook at one end that is semicircular in section. The other end is decorated with two bowed lobes with a small circular perforation positioned centrally where the lobes meet. A copper alloy rivet is positioned centrally through each lobe, 2mm from the edge of the lobe. The rivets were fitted on the underside of the clasp with conical lugs.

The book clasp appears to be undecorated, though this may be due to surface corrosion of the object.

PAS link