Celtic Gold Twisted Armlet

Place of OriginLikely England

Date1st century BCE

DimensionsL: 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm); W: 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm); H: 9/16 in. (1.5 cm); Weight: 55.01 grams

MediumGold.

ClassificationJewelry

Credit LineGift of the Popplestone Family

Object number

2006.103

Not on View

DescriptionA heavy gold armlet formed from a thick, circular-sectioned rod or bundle of wires twisted tightly into a spiral. The terminals are fashioned into loops that bend back against the main hoop. The surface shows the characteristic ridges of the twisted metal construction. The diameter is approximately 8.2 cm.

Label TextThis heavy gold armlet is a masterpiece of Celtic metalwork from the 1st Century BCE. Crafted by twisting gold rods into a tight spiral, it belongs to a tradition of status symbols found in the spectacular royal hoards of East Anglia, England—the lands of the Iceni tribe. Objects like this were more than just jewelry; they were potent symbols of power and authority, often buried in groups as offerings to the gods. Its "twisted" form mimics the famous great torcs (neck rings) worn by Celtic chieftains and warriors.