English: A silver-gilt object of uncertain function, of late medieval or early post-medieval date. The object consists of two, now separate, pieces: a flat piece of silver of oval shape, with decorative outline, and with the words 'FOR TIME or A LITTLE TIME' engraved in black letter at either end. An area of solder in the centre of the oval indicates a mount or separate element has become detached from the surface. A small hollow tube of silver, with a facetted surface, originally fitted diagonally onto one end of the back of the oval piece; a corresponding mark suggests a similar piece also originally fitted onto the other end. The arrangement of pieces formed a triangular object of unknown function, possibly an item of jewellery or for suspending a toilet suite from a belt. The object probably dates to the 15th or 16th century. Length of oval piece: 23mm, max width, 6mm, max length of tube: 12mm, max width: 6mm.

Consequently, in terms of age and as the object contains a minimum of 10% precious metal it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996.

Beverley Nenk Curator of Medieval Collections. 4 February 2013