Medieval Archaeology 31

Excavations in 1979-82 suggested that a three-sided earthwork enclosing a large area S of Rhuddlan forms the defences of the burh of Cledemutha founded by Edward the Elder. Evidence is presented for the dating, method of construction, original appearance, and subsequent slighting of the defences. Comparisons are made with other large, Late Saxon burhs and reasons are given for both the foundation and the failure of this planted borough. Au (abr)

The timber aisled hall of the Bishop's Palace is reassessed in the light of contemporary stone halls and of new evidence for its original plan (?Bishop William de Vere, 1186-98). It is assigned to a group of sumptuous late 12th century halls, products of a new fashion. Recently discovered plans of c 1840, with other evidence, make possible a reconstruction: a four-bay hall, a side porch, and an end chamber-block of three floors over a basement. A building demolished in the 18th century is interpreted as a detached main chamber-block. Au (abr)

Six complete 14th century vessels and fragments of a seventh are identified as lavers or ewers for hand-washing. The Lombardic French inscription on one, made in London, suggests a connection with bell founders. The alloys are analysed and there is a list of comparable vessels from Britain and N Europe. F B

'Cada's minster', Willersey (Glos) and 'the holy place', Fawler in Kingston Lisle (Oxf have both been identified from charters. One is close to a hillfort, the other to a villa, so continuity is possible. The minster name need not indicate a major monastic site. F B