Detail View: The AMICA Library: Torque (Neck Ring)

AMICA ID: 
MMA_.17.194.1919
AMICA Library Year: 
2002
Object Type: 
Decorative Arts and Utilitarian Objects
Description: 
This torque, or neck ring, is an elegant example of one of the most important forms of jewelry for the ancient Celts. The lower half of the ring has been formed into a series of large beads that were once inset with red enamel. Though now somewhat corroded, the piece nonetheless gives an idea of how Celtic artisans elaborated upon the basic ring-shaped form. Worn by both men and women, a torque was often seen as a symbol of divinity or high rank in addition to serving talismanic purposes. Ancient writers noted that the Celtic queen Boadicea, who fought the Romans in eastern Britain, wore a golden neck ring in battle. Celtic artists often depicted deities wearing or holding torques, and torques were also included among votive treasures placed at sanctuaries.
Creator Nationality: 
European; Celtic
Creator Name-CRT: 
Celtic
Title: 
Torque (Neck Ring)
View: 
Principal view
Creation Date: 
4th?3rd century B.C.
Creation Start Date: 
0
Creation End Date: 
0
Materials and Techniques: 
Copper alloy
Style or Period: 
European Iron Age
Dimensions: 
Diam. 6 1/8 in. (15.5 cm)
AMICA Contributor: 
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Owner Location: 
New York, New York
ID Number: 
17.194.1919
Credit Line: 
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
Copyright: 
Copyright ? 2002 The Metropolitan Museum of Art. All rights reserved.
Rights: 
Related Image Identifier Link: 
MMA_.h1_17.194.1919.tif