Medieval Strap End with Acorns, Leaves and a Quatrefoil

A beautiful strap-end dating to the 14th century is the perfect addition to the end of your medieval belt. Strap-ends are easy to attach at the end of a belt using rivets or thread. They add both ornament and authenticity to your outfit.

This style features an open work quatrefoil and acorn on the tip. The base of the strap end takes the form of decorative leaves. Strap ends with acorns are the most popular kind in medieval England. You can see an example of an openwork quatrefoil strap end here: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/642407

What’s so special about acorns you ask? Well throughout history acorns have been symbols for many different beliefs. Roman goddesses often wore necklaces of acorns. The acorn symbolized potential and new life.

In medieval times acorns appear with oak leaves as a heraldic symbol, usually associated with strength and stability. But with the acorn’s ability to grow a new tree from such a tiny package, they were powerful symbols of possibility and patience, because trees don't grow quickly. I have even heard a rumour that acorns represent male virility, but that’s a tale for another day.

Will wearing these acorns make you strong or lead to new possibilities? Hopefully so, but they are guaranteed to make you feel beautifully medieval.

Measurements:
Acorn Foliate End - L = 69mm, W = 24 mm (at strap attachment)