Roman 'Segmented' Baldric Fitting
Copper-alloy, 11.76 grams, 26.77 mm. 2nd-3rd century AD. A flat cast mount with its face divided into two concentric circles with triskele detailing. The cast arms and circles form the rims of cells to retain the decorative enamel filling. Fittings of this kind were worn as decoration on the baldric or shoulder-strap from which the sword was suspended. This example has a cast slider fitting on the reverse showing signs of wear. Reference: Appels, A. & Laycock, S. Roman Buckles and Military Fittings, p.86-7. Very fine condition. Provenance: found East Tilbury, Essex, England.