Description
An interesting, Victorian, gothic revival mouse or cope clasp, circular stamped in relief with heraldic emblem * within a quatrefoil and borders of repeating foliate motifs, the reverse with four wire loops, unmarked, probably dating from 1840-1850, 3.9in (10cm) diameter, 3.3oz.
* Probably the coat of arms of the Beauchamp family. Copes were cloaks worn for processions, for parts of the Mass and at vespers & their voluminous form requried a secure clasp. Interestly also to point out that the Birmingham firm of John Hardman & Co made similar morses (amongst other items that is to the designs of AWN. Pugin.
