Celtic Bronze Snake, Bracelet (No reserve price)

Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Early Iron Age, Celtic bronze bracelet of penannular form, fashioned from a solid rod with gently tapering terminals. The ends are modelled as stylised snake heads, facing one another in a poised, symmetrical arrangement, -> Snakes are often associated with protection, renewal, and continuity in ancient symbolism. Diameter: ± 76,2 mm Condition: intact and in good solid condition. Attractive patina with malachite and azurite. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity (PDF) is available upon request for all lots with a hammer price of €100 or higher. -> While largely undecorated along the body, the carefully formed serpent terminals add both visual interest and symbolic depth, reflecting a refined yet understated craftsmanship. Such pieces functioned not only as personal adornment but may also have carried amuletic significance. -> In Celtic religion snakes were a symbol of fertility, healing, wisdom and rebirth. The shedding of skins by snakes represented regeneration, healing and rebirth. The Celts esteemed serpents as mystical creatures of the Underworld and the Druids believed snakes had ancient knowledge and wisdom. Many Celtic deities were associated with snakes. Sirona, a Celtic goddess of healing and fertility was often portrayed with serpents. Her cult thrived around spas, healing springs and fountains in the Iron Age and Gallo-Roman era. Cernunnos, the horned god, favoured snakes as the sacred creatures of his cult in Gaul and Britain. Cernunnos is portrayed holding a ram-horned serpent on the Gundestrup cauldron and on a rock carving at Val Camonica (Italy). Two horned serpents replaced the legs and feet of Cernunnos on a carving at Cirencester in Gloucestershire. Abilus, Damona , Verbeia and the cult of the Matres or Matronae were also associated with snakes.

Estimate:£176.29

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