Iron Age Crown-Shaped Neck-Ring

Culture: North to Eastern Europe

Period: 5th-3rd century B.C.

Material: Bronze

Dimensions: 14.5 cm in diameter; 715 grams

Price: Sold

Ref: 5170

Provenance: English private collection prior to 1960.

Condition: Intact

Description: Massive bronze collar consisting of two hinged parts, on its upper side with triangular spikes. This form of Iron Age jewelry is called “Kronenhalsring” due to its crown-like shape. The upper side of the hinge is decorated with a rosette. The outer side has two parallel ribs, decorated on top and at the bottom with incised decoration. The inside is flat. Crown-shaped neck-rings were popular in Denmark and the north German lowlands, mainly in the Jastorf culture. Several examples were also found in Central Europe up to Ukraine. "Kronenhalsringe" served as votive offerings. They were often placed in moors. However, crown-shaped neck-rings with signs of wear were found in graves, which prove that they were worn around the neck. Since the spikes affect the head movement research suggests that they were used as festive costumes. The present exceptionally well preserved "Kronenhalsring" can still be opened and closed. See for the type: Björn Rauchfuß „Die Kronenhalsringe der vorrömischen Eisenzeit in Nord- und Osteuropa“, Berlin 2002. Mounted.