Description : Sometimes, shapeless lumps that are found during an excavation can hold surprises. Here is an example :
Twelve very corroded metallic fragments were found in a waste pit. When they were put together, they formed a candleholder. When the parts were X-rayed, consolidated and cleaned with the help of a dental hose, the decoration could be seen. The object was a bronze candleholder, resting on an openwork base, the feet of which were decorated with three lion or dragon heads. The shaft consisted of bronze tubes and spheres threaded onto an iron rod. At the top was a spindle where the candle was set. A small dish-or candle ring-beneath the spindle served to catch the tallow that dripped from the candle. A stylistic study allowed archaeologists to date the object to around the year 1,000 CE. Although such candleholders are known from the treasury of churches, it is quite unusual to find such an object during an excavation.