**First Time At Auction**

Northwestern Europe, Celtic, La Tene / Iron Age, ca. 4th to 1st century BCE. A massive bronze torq (torc or torque) made from a twisted wire and hook clasp. The piece is comprised of a singular length of thick bronze wire, twisted like a rope, that doubles back on itself to form a loop on one end. The terminal tips on the other end are curled to form a hook to clasp the loop; although the diameter is large enough to fit over most heads without unhooking the clasp! A dark green patina covers the surface of this circular and mesmerizing form. Torqs were revered for their affinities with the divine and were worn as powerful status symbols of might and strength, especially in the context of war. Size: 9.25" Diameter x 0.375" W (23.5 cm x 1 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection, acquired 1990s

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#165699

Slight bending to overall form, with minor abrasions to body and terminals, otherwise intact and very good. Lustrous green patina throughout. Wearable with slight flexibility to bronze.