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Large copper alloy strap union comprised of a decorated roughly cruciform plaque formed by a pair of circular areas and a pair of pelta shaped areas concealing two strap bars of rectangular cross section. These bars would have accomodated straps up to 28mm wide and one bar is noticibly thinner and more worn than the other. Within the circular areas the plaque is decorated with two opposing circles highlighted with an incised line and expanding into a trumpet shape enclosing a palmette. Each circle contains a reverse S-scroll expanding to trumpet shaped points further augmented with incised narrow trumpets. Spaces within the design are highlighted with inlaid red enamel. Where the enamel has fallen away areas of deep scratches can be seen where the metal was roughened prior to adding the enamel. The back of the strap union is plain and flat, although some black residue remains.

Bronze harness fitting, 1-70 CE.

There was a powerful connection between warriors and their horses. Elite warriors used their chariots to display their high status. They used exquisite bronze work decorated with red glass in their horse harnesses and chariot fittings. Objects such as this give us a glimpse of the people who waged war with an invading Roman army, 1,950 years ago.

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