LOT 1623

Iron Age British Celtic Corieltauvi Bronze Fastener with Hidden Face

1ST CENTURY A.D.

1 3/8 in. (12.4 grams, 34 mm).

Composed of an openwork discoid head and triangular lug, stylised.

Part of the Sutton-on-Trent 'treasure'; found Sutton-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, UK.
Ex Chris Rudd collection, Norfolk, UK; formed since the 1970s.
Collection number CE62.

Corieltauvi coins are teeming with such hidden faces, though they are often more difficult to discern than this miniature facial masterpiece.

On 19 May 2009 Chris Rudd received images of a Celtic tankard handle and other objects that had been found inside the remains of a late Iron Age or early Romano-British cauldron or bucket that had been unearthed on a farm near Sutton-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire. Recognising the significance of the hoard, he advised that it should be reported to the local PAS finds liaison officer, but also added that if a museum did not acquire the hoard, that he would be keen to buy it. The hoard was reported to FLO Rachel Atherton and then examined at the British Museum. Two years later Chris was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to purchase the hoard for his own collection, including the 'jewel' in the bucket - the Sutton-on-Trent Tankard Handle.