Iron Age Celtic Sacrificed Sword and Axehead Group

Composed of a leaf-shaped blade, round-section grip with wide flat tang and lobe pommel. 740 grams, 40 cm

Fine condition.

Abelita family collection, 1980-2015.

Each a scrolled and angled bar tapering to a gently carinated zoomorphic terminal, formed as a serpent or other animal with stylised geometric detailing; attachment perforations to both terminals. 33 grams total, 70 mm each



Acquired on the London art market, 1980s-1990s.

In the 1st century B.C.-1st century A.D., the Celtic fastening system of the ring mail armour (gallica, lorica ferro aspera) became the standard in the Imperial Roman army, with a pivot attached to the breast and hinged to the edges of the humeralia (shoulder guards). The chest fastener had various different designs. The double hooks, S-shaped and usually with snake-head terminals, were secured by a central rivet on the chest. The system allowed excellent freedom of movement, giving greater protection to the shoulders and the arms. Similar fasteners for infantry mail have been found on the Kalkriese battlefield, some of them also decorated with niello and inscribed with the name of the soldier.

Standard British naval issue dark blue rating's cap with Toronto maker's ink stamp and date inside, fitted with black fabric 'H.M.S.' ribbon and chin-strap. 196 grams, 25 cm



Acquired from The Historic Flying Clothing Company, 2014. The Kusmirek Collection, UK. Accompanied by a copy of a previous invoice.