Bronze Age Decorated Scutiform Disc Pendant

Code: 10419

This is a bold and stylish Middle Bronze Age scutiform pendant, dating to c. 1500 - 1000 B.C. It is a decorated with four concentric circles, representative of the sun and the four seasons. At the centre is a large spike, presumably imitative of a targe or fighting shield. The back retains the original suspension loop, indicating this piece to have been worn suspended as a pendant. A rare and unusual item, worn presumably to 'shield' the wearer from harm as an apotropaic amulet.

OBJECT: Pendant / Amulet

CULTURE: Middle Bronze Age

DATE: c. 1500 - 1000 B.C.

MATERIAL: Bronze

SIZE:  47mm diameter x 20mm (tall with spike) x 2mm thick.

WEIGHT:  19.3 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. Private Collection, Hertfordshire England.