Celtic bracelet. Central Europe, 4th century BC.

Celtic bracelet. Central Europe, 4th century BC.
Bronze.
Provenance: Mmme B. Collection, Brussels, inherited from German relatives in 2020.
Measurements: 9 cm.

This bracelet was probably worn by people of high social hierarchy, possibly as a symbol of power or status. The shape of the Celtic bracelets was diverse, and some could be open at the ends or solid, like the one shown here, adapting to the arm of the wearer.

During the 4th century BC, Celtic tribes flourished in the region of Central Europe, particularly in what we know today as France, Germany, Austria and parts of Switzerland. Bronze was a common material among Celtic craftsmen, as it allowed for both the creation of decorative objects and their functionality. Many of these bracelets are found at burial sites, suggesting their importance not only in daily dress, but also in religious rituals and ceremonies.