The mirror is one of the earliest found in this country, and its decoration in Celtic style is of particular significance because of the secure dating evidence using modern archaeological techniques.

Its early style of decoration will help research into the technical and stylistic development of these mirrors - which are one of the iconic finds of the British Iron Age - and for understanding the social circumstances for which they provide evidence. The archaeologists determined that the mirror and brooches were buried in the grave of a young woman, probably of high status, whose cremated remains were contained in a pottery vessel. Canterbury's Museums already hold the pottery vessel and cremated remains found with these items.

Provenance

Finder and landowner; Sotheby's, 1995; Robin Symes Ltd; BDO Stow Hayward, 2008; Rupert Wace Ancient Art.


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