Ancient Celtic Iberian Large Bronze Belt Plaque and Clasp

An Ancient Celtic Iberian Large Bronze Belt Plaque and Clasp Decorated with Fine Damascene Silver Work in Celtic Scrolling Motifs
2nd Century BC

Size: 8cm high, 21.5cm wide, 2cm deep (max) - 3¼ ins high, 8½ ins wide, ¾ ins deep (max) 
 
An Ancient Celtic Iberian Large Bronze Belt Plaque and Clasp Decorated with Fine Damascene Silver Work in Celtic Scrolling Motifs
2nd Century BC

Size: 8cm high, 21.5cm wide, 2cm deep (max) - 3¼ ins high, 8½ ins wide, ¾ ins deep (max) 
The Celts represent one of the common origins of the variegated Europe of today. First centred in Austria and Switzerland, Celtic culture spread both east and west. In western Europe the Celts occupied Gaul, southern England and parts of western Italy. By 450 BC they were in Spain, the western most region of the vast territory that they occupied, and here they co-existed and assimilated with the indigenous Iberian population. 
     Celto-Iberian art was distinguished by the unique use of both silver and gold Damascene work and this technique was used to spectacular effect on weapons and large belt buckles such as this example. Probably made as an object of prestige for the warrior elite of the Iron Age, they were spread throughout Iberia in the form of gifts and then imitated by the craftsmen employed by the elite. This profoundly decorative art form remained deeply rooted in Iberian culture until Spain became a Roman province around 140 BC.
 
Ex Private collection of Eric Vaule Connecticut USA
Acquired 1970’s 
Ex European collection

Ancient Celtic Iberian Large Bronze Belt Plaque and Clasp

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ENQUIRIES

+44 (0)7768 236921
+44 (0)7836 684133

enquiries@finch-and-co.co.uk