Iron Age Gold Brooches with Linked Chain

La Tène III, c. 80-20 BC

Cast, twisted and filigree gold

Length of longest brooch: 10.3 cm

Weight: 125 g

Provenance

British private collection, 1940s, thence by descent

Surpassing even the British Museum’s Winchester Hoard in technique, design and configuration, the present Iron Age gold brooches are an exquisite and unparalleled example of gold-working from late Iron Age Britain. On account of their opulence and extremely high gold content, they were no doubt made for a member of the ruling elite. Preserved in exceptional condition, and exhibiting an outstanding and enigmatic example of ancient craftsmanship.

POA