A Bronze Age penannular neck torc formed from a single length of bronze wire, which has been twisted to form a rope effect across much of its length. The thickness is mainly consistent throughout, although the ends taper slightly and flatten, before doubling back to form the decorative loops, one of which is now missing.
 
Late Bronze Age Europe: Circa 1200-500 BC.
 
Very Fine condition with attractive green patina.
Diameter (widest point): 13.5 cms (5.3 ins).
 
Provenance: Ex German collection, 1990s.
 
Torcs were neck rings worn widely across Europe during the Bronze Age. Indeed, testament to their popularity are the stunning examples made from valuable metals (such as the Snettisham Great Torc of gold alloy), and frequent mentions of torcs as spoils of war. These decorative pieces were not confined to militarily contexts, however, with their frequent appearance on Celtic deities suggestive of the torc's religious significance. More generally, the popularity of the torc reflects the prosperity of the later second millenium BC in Europe. New technologies, trade routes, and agricultural methods were rapidly developing, with beneficiaries flaunting evidence of their increased wealth and heightened social status.
 
Reference: A MacGregor; Antiquities from Europe and the Near East in the Collection of the Lord McAlpine of West Green, 1987, no. 9.13.