Ancient Celtic Iron Age "Moustache-shaped" object or Sword Pommel

Code: 11955

This is an unusual "Moustache-shaped" pommel or helmet fitting, dating from the Middle Bronze Age to the Late Iron Age, after the discovery of one in the Salisbury Hoard (Stead, 1998, no.117). The object consists of two pointed drop-shaped elements (one point is lost due to abrasion), D-shaped in cross-section and joined at their widest point, by a longitudinally recessed oval neck. There are multiple longitudinal grooves on the upper face on both domed sides of the object, the tapering lower parts are plain. The two moustache tips or prongs flare slightly outwards and the retained point terminates in a narrow point. The central neck section of the object is plain and undecorated but the underside (between the two prongs) has a sub-circular perforation, believed to facilitate the attachment of the object.

Further examples have been recorded from Wendover (NARC-6A4546), Dereham (NMS-A0C513), and Walkern (BH-BD3AFC)

OBJECT: Sword Pommel or fitting

CULTURE: Iron Age, Celtic

DATE: c. 1500 - 300 BC.

MATERIAL: Copper-alloy

SIZE: 60.07mm x 26.94mm x 13.11mm

WEIGHT: 29.06 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in a private collection, Derbyshire.