A MEDIEVAL horse decoration found in Evesham by an amateur archaeologist and historian has found a new home.
Peter Stewart who found the heraldic pendant whilst metal detecting in 2011 has decided to entrust it into the safekeeping of Mick Hurst, director of the Battle of Evesham festival.
The object measures 38 by 30mm and is made of copper-alloy. Its red enamel design is worn but still visible and could represent either a bird or a griffin.
During the medieval period, horse harnesses were often elaborately decorated with studs, bosses and heraldic pendants.
They were suspended from various straps on the harness across the chest and the brow band across the forehead.
Peter said: “One can only speculate that the horse harness pendant described by a leading authority as a ‘medieval quarto foil horse pendant and heraldic’ belonged to a knight who was involved in the battle of Evesham.”
Until recently the pendant adorned Peter’s study wall but due to health reasons he decided that Mick, who is also a member of The Battlefields Trust would be best placed to carry out more research on the artefact.
Mick, who is behind a long-term vision to build a new visitor centre dedicated to the historic 13th Century battle in Evesham, said: “These sorts of artefacts are invaluable and would make a perfect object for display in a future centre. Although we cannot say for certain it is from the battle, my contacts at The Battlefields Trust means I should be able to undertake more detailed research into this fantastic find.”
