Although the medieval era isn’t exactly renowned for its hygiene practices, a new discovery near King’s Lynn in Norfolk has provided a whole new perspective on the way people used to keep clean. A 43mm-long ear-cleaner was unearthed by a metal detectorist back in July, with a gilded design and dots punched into it.
One of a kind, or just a rare find?
Although it’s not the first to be discovered, there are only 20 other instances of silver ear scoops on the Portable Antiquities website, which has been around for a quarter of a century, making it a rare find. For comparison, other silver items discovered from the medieval era include around 1,200 brooches, about 1,200 finger rings and 29 pins.
Because these scoops aren’t found within archaeological digs very often, it can be difficult to date them accurately. Current estimates put them at around 1350-1400. They’re strikingly similar to Roman ear scoops, but can be distinguished by their dotted designs and lack of a suspension loop.
The drill-like design is a little off-putting, but fortunately, we’ve long since moved on with our ear-cleaning tech. If you need ear wax removal Bristol, don’t go prodding around with any of these. Instead, consult ear wax removal specialists, such as those found at https://www.earwax.co.uk/ear-wax-removal-near-me/bristol.
Treasure?
You may not consider it as treasure in the same way you would a chest of gold, but under the Treasure Act 1996, these scoops would meet the criteria to be considered as such. Treasure is anything prehistoric, gold or silver coins over 300 years old, or any deliberately hidden valuables from more recent times.
If you happen to dig up any of these treasures, you’ll legally be required to inform your local coroner. Following this, an inquest will be carried out to determine whether your find meets all the criteria. Should this be the case, the object will be given a value, and the landowner will probably be reimbursed for their find.
Currently, Norwich Castle Museum is hoping to lay claim to the recently discovered scoop, adding a new entry to local history.