What is this "thingy"? - Metal Detector Find From a Roman Site

[Joe Sermarini]

What is this "thingy"? - Metal Detector Find From a Roman Site

It looks like something to put out the flame on a candle but it is too tiny for that - 30.8mm greatest length, the "cup" is 17 mm tall. It is quite thin and delicate. I am not certain what type of metal it is. Anyone know?

[Din X]

Maybe it was a bell?

[*Alex]

It is really tiny. I was wondering if it could be the top cap for some religious object, maybe something ecclesiastical since the design on the sides look like long crosses. 

Alex

[Joe Sermarini]

It can't be a bell. I am quite certain this metal would not ring. 

Hmm, they might be crosses.

[Ken W2]

Hmmmm, is right !  The main body looks stamped to me.  Those do look like crosses.  Can't tell if that is a handle or loop that has been soldered or braised on, but apparently it had some function.  Perhaps a thimble kept handy on a chain or leather necklace ? 

[Joe Sermarini]

It is about thimble size, but it is so thin, a needle might punch through if pressed hard enough.

[Arminius]

Possibly a cover to extinguish a candle.

regards

[Ken W2]

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/414331234460655460/

Possibly a pipe wind guard ?

[Joe Sermarini]

Wow that looks like it! I wish the photo was bigger. Google did not pull up other similar wind guards or wind screens, but I do think that is it. I cleaned up that pick and attached it below. Unfortunately Pintrest has no information about it (date).

Thanks Ken.

[VonDrobac]

I am still more convinced that this is candle snuffer, most finds are similar size or even smaller.

Regards

[Joe Sermarini]

I am fully convinced it is a pipe wind guard. The curly "handle" is identical to the one in the pipe photo. It is designed to clip on the side of the pipe bowl. It is not designed for fingers.

[VonDrobac]

I have a taken look again on picture and i must say that you are right, i only now noticed small part of hinge (opposite side of what i believed is handle). Sorry for misleading.

[Virgil H]

Given the period discussed, that would make this into the modern era if a pipe cover. Tobacco was a relatively late addition in Europe. Or maybe they smoked other things? I still think candle snuffer, even a basic one used in a church with the crosses. I have seen candle snuffers this small or smaller. I have seen them on long sticks, as well as handheld. But, if attribution is much later than Roman, pipe cover also makes sense. Interesting little piece.

Virgil

[Joe Sermarini]

I don't know the date, certainly antique, but not ancient. My guess 19th - 20th century. I will put it on the Members' auction, starting at $.99.