Costrel
Date: Late 1300s
Leather was used for making light, unbreakable bottles for carrying drink on a journey. Soaked in water, the leather could be shaped around a pattern or 'former' and would retain its shape when dry. Costrels were barrel-shaped, and had lugs with holes on either side of the mouth so that they could be carried on a cord worn on the belt or round the neck. This one is decorated with shields.
Accession number: BC72[83]<1996>
Place of collection: Baynard's Castle, Baynard House, Queen Victoria Street EC4 [City of London]
Material: leather
Measurements: H 180 mm; L 195 mm; W 80 mm
Gallery location: Case 14.3