BradHayward1
Tenderfoot
- Oct 19, 2023
- 5
- 3
Hi guys! Could someone please tell me what this Medieval cruciform mount was used for?
Many thanks!!
Many thanks!!
It appears to be a vintage faucet handle. to turn off the water, steam , or other liquid.
I'll be amazed if this could carry a guarantee of authenticity of its 'true attribution', as it would be very questionable as to its function & age.This item was purchased from a reputable UK dealer in fossils, meteorites and artefacts with a guarantee of authenticity (for what that's worth). Here's a better picture of it from the listing. It's clearly a primitive casting, as evidenced by the irregularities and imperfect symmetry.
View attachment 2115652
The capstan for a vintage tap (faucet) would usually have a square hole (sometimes triangular) since it needs to be able to turn the spindle of the valve assembly without slipping. A round hole is possible, but only as a means of securing it, and there still needs to be a way for it to grip the spindle. A set of corrugations that lock onto a corresponding set on the spindle for example.