Copper-alloy, 70 grams, 61.40 mm. 2nd-3rd century AD. A cast copper-alloy fitting comprising a thick pelta-shaped plate with a sub-triangular lug protruding from the top, with scalloped sides and pierced to form a hinge. Between the shoulders of the plate is fixed a stylised cast dolphin figure with bulbous head and raised tail developing to a ribbed triangular flange. The lug and thickened section suggest that the piece was the hinged lid from a vessel. The dolphin motif was popular with the Roman military. Reference: cf. dolphin decoration on military buckles in Appels, A. & Laycock, S. Roman Buckles & Military Fittings, Witham, 2007. Very fine condition, complete. Provenance: from an old English collection.