Neck Ring
This torque, or neck ring, is an elegant example of one of the most important forms of jewelry for the ancient Celts. The lower half of the ring has been formed into a series of large beads that were once inset with red enamel. Though now somewhat corroded, the piece nonetheless gives an idea of how Celtic artisans elaborated upon the basic ring-shaped form. Worn by both men and women, a torque was often seen as a symbol of divinity or high rank in addition to serving talismanic purposes. Ancient writers noted that the Celtic queen Boadicea, who fought the Romans in eastern Britain, wore a golden neck ring in battle. Celtic artists often depicted deities wearing or holding torques, and torques were also included among votive treasures placed at sanctuaries.
Artwork Details
- Title: Neck Ring
- Date: 400–300 BC
- Geography: Made in southern Germany or Switzerland
- Culture: Celtic
- Medium: Copper alloy with remains of glass paste inlays
- Dimensions: Overall: 5 15/16 x 5 7/8 x 3/4 in., 0.377lb. (15.1 x 14.9 x 1.9 cm, 171g)
- Classification: Metalwork-Copper alloy
- Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
- Object Number: 17.194.1919
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters
More Artwork
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600 BCE
Celtic
5th century BCE
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650–550 BCE
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900–600 BCE
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2nd century BCE
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