19th January 2012, 05:35 PM
(This post was last modified: 19th January 2012, 05:38 PM by moreno.)
geo Wrote:...as for my comment regarding the putative additional finds: we have yet to be presented with any evidence of these so my opinion still stands.
A more appropriate context for comment as oppose to innuendo (points italicised by me):
"The dominant reaction in the UK of dismay that the helmet had not been declared treasure, would not have been seen even a few years ago. The helmet contains no gold or silver, but part of the definition of treasure embraces non-precious metal items found in association. However, this currently applies only to prehistoric objects, and there is a clear case for extending it into Roman times: it would be absurd to think that even a group of seven bronze parade helmets would not legally be treasure. A small bronze rectangle amongst the Crosby Garrett fragments may not have been part of the helmet (Bradbury recorded traces of lead, possibly solder, on one face, but could see no lead on the inside of the visor or helmet). Though now impossible to tell without further examination, if this strip was not part of the helmet, it would have made the find treasure under the act's likely revision.
However, the helmet might well have been a genuine isolated find, and would thus probably have escaped even a revised act. To further strengthen the act could mean a radical change in the proven system of trust in the world of portable antiquities in this country. Leaving aside the issue of ownership, it is a system that has benefited the helmet: we know exactly where it came from, archaeologists have been able to examine and record it and Christie's has allowed public access to the restoration records. On the other hand, conservation and more detailed study would have revealed more about the object, and its loss to identity and public interest in Cumbria and beyond is very strong. There is a debate to be had – one in which personal attacks on the buyer or finder have no place."
From, ‘The Crosby Garrett Roman Helmet’ in British Archaeology (116), Jan/Feb 2011 by Sally Worrell, Ralph Jackson, Andrew Mackay, Roger Bland and Mike Pitts. 16
again please refer to my earlier post.
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.