This copper strap was found by Captain Kane Fisher and the crew
of the M/V Navigator on the Cannon wreck site. It is rectangular
in shape and has a three lobed floret at each distil end. It is
pierced by four holes, indicating that it was attached to
another object at one time.
The object is engraved at both ends with fighting cocks. The
activity of pitting two roosters or cocks against one another
and gambling on which would win was a popular sport during the
time period and in some regions persists to this day. The motif
is indicative of strength and a fighting spirit. One can see
these animals used as artistic motifs on jewelry, ceramics and
on contemporary paintings.
Figure: 25 - Illustration of fighting cock Shipwrecked 1622 The Lost Treasure of on
Philip IV
Figure: 26 - Close up of engraving artifact
#49352
One could hazard a number of educated guesses as to the
association, such as a decorative strap on furniture, a chest or
horse tack.
