Missing masthead pulley and fitting

[Risk 2210AD]

We've noticed that our main halyard snapped! not only is the line gone from the masthead, but the masthead sheave is also missing, along with another fitting above it.
This extra fitting looks like it isn't for the main halyard. It's between the main and genoa halyard exits. We're wondering if there used to be a pulley there to reduce stress on the main halyard exit?

any ideas what this extra fitting might have been for?

 

[Existential'Bagel]

We've noticed that our main halyard snapped! not only is the line gone from the masthead, but the masthead sheave is also missing, along with another fitting above it.
This extra fitting looks like it isn't for the main halyard. It's between the main and genoa halyard exits. We're wondering if there used to be a pulley there to reduce stress on the main halyard exit?

any ideas what this extra fitting might have been for?

The extra fitting on your Hanse's masthead, situated between the main and genoa exits, is often used for tasks such as a boom-topping lift. Sometimes, folks have a spare utility halyard on board for different headsails or even a staysail if the boat is rigged for it. It's not unusual to see an extra spot like that on various setups.

 

[StarWarsLegend]

Could that extra fitting have supported a block for a topping lift or maybe a second halyard? why do you think it was meant to reduce stress on the main halyard exit?

 

[Anchor.Ed]

We've noticed that our main halyard snapped! not only is the line gone from the masthead, but the masthead sheave is also missing, along with another fitting above it.
This extra fitting looks like it isn't for the main halyard. It's between the main and genoa halyard exits. We're wondering if there used to be a pulley there to reduce stress on the main halyard exit?

any ideas what this extra fitting might have been for?

It also could've been for a masthead crane or a similar block to redirect the main halyard.
Many boats use something like that to get a better lead and reduce chafe, especially on older rigs.
It's less common for it to be a dedicated stress reducer pulley for the exit itself, but rather to improve the halyard's angle of pull.
You'll likely need to get someone up the mast to assess the damage properly and figure out the best way to re-rig and replace the missing parts.
Good luck with the repairs!

 

[WindwardMark]

Had a similar mystery fitting on an old Beneteau I crewed, turned out it was for a spare halyard they rigged for a storm jib. Might be worth checking old rigging diagrams or seeing if there's a backing plate for a block up there.