post-medieval horse harness pendant or a heraldic-style mount, likely dating from the 17th to 18th century.
These were common decorative items used to adorn horse tack (harnesses) in Europe and the Middle East.
Key Observations
* The Suspension Loops: The two integral loops at the top are a classic feature for attaching the piece to a leather strap or a larger harness fitting.
* Design & Motifs: The central design features a stylized floral or geometric pattern, including what looks like a six-petaled rosette (often called a "marigold" or "pelta" motif) within a central crescent. This specific style of "chip-carved" or cast decoration is very common in Ottoman or Balkan metalwork from the 1600s–1700s.
* Material: It is made of a copper alloy (bronze or brass). The green and brown crust you see is a natural patina formed by oxidation over centuries.
Historical Context
While many of these items are found in the UK and Europe, the specific "double-loop" and the geometric arrangement suggest it could be a post-medieval pendant influenced by Eastern or Islamic design, which often spread through trade and conflict (notably the Ottoman-Hungarian wars).
> A Note on Preservation: The "green" patches (verdigris) can sometimes indicate "bronze disease" if they are bright and powdery, which can eat away at the metal. If it feels crumbly, it’s best to keep it in a dry, low-humidity environment.