Bronze Age Gold from Wales

Early Iron Age bronze helmet

Comprised of at least four fragments reconstructed as a flange. Bears engraved decoration comprising a scroll-like pattern of paired acanthus leaves linked to paired lotus leaves interspersed with palmettes within a cross-hatched background. One rivet is located on the inner edge of the flange. Originally thought to be a hanging bowl these fragments are now interpreted as a ceremonial crown or helmet.

The Cerrigydrudion Crown, 405-380 BCE.

The Cerrigydrudion Crown is one of the earliest examples of Celtic art from Britain. In 1924, a farmer found a stone-lined grave while repairing a wall near Cerrigydrudion, north-east Wales. It contained fragments of decorated bronze. Originally, archaeologists thought it was a hanging bowl. However, now we think it is part of a headpiece, decorated with palm leaf and lotus flower designs.

SC5.6

Collection Area

Archaeology & Numismatics

Item Number

26.116/1

Find Information

Site Name: Ty-tan-y-Foel Farm, Cerrigydrudion

Date: 1924

Notes: found accidentally in 'a cist filled with soil' on edge of field 500 yards NNW of Ty-tan-y-Foel Farm

Acquisition

Donation, 25/2/1926

Measurements

width / mm:21.0 (flange)
diameter / mm:225.0

Material

copper alloy

Location

St Fagans Gweithdy gallery : Celtic Art

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Categories

Bronze casting
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