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This interesting piece is a Celtic bronze ring, otherwise known as a "terret ring". This piece dates circa 1st century B.C.-1st century A.D. and it was reportedly found in the southern coastal region of the United Kingdom. This piece was mounted on a war chariot and was used as a guide for the horse reins, as the reins would pass through the ring and gave the charioteer more control over the horses. This piece is approximately 2.25 inches high by 2.5 inches wide, and is large enough for two sets of reins to pass through. The design of this piece, with the raised center and oval shape, also allowed for better separation of the two sets of reins. There was also a mounting peg that went up the inside bottom, as this piece has a recess hole. This piece was made during the period when Caius Julius Caesar invaded Britain in 55 B.C. The war chariot, with one charioteer and one warrior with a spear and shield, was new to the Romans as a weapon of war. Chariots were used by the Romans as a method of transport and not as a war machine, and not even the Celts of Gaul used a war chariot. The Romans faced two-wheeled and four-wheeled chariots which carried the warriors into the attack. The war chariot was introduced to Britain in the 3rd century B.C. by the Parisi of Yorkshire, the tribe whose Gaulish capital still bears their name (Paris). The Celtic chariots were made of light wooden frames and were elaborately fitted with bronze fittings and wheels with iron rims. The war chariot is featured in many of the sagas of Celtic mythology and the piece seen here is an excellent representation of the native Celts of Britain. This piece has a graceful shape, has a nice dark green patina, and is complete and intact. (See Bonhams Antiquities, London, Dec. 1995, no.339 for a comparative example. 2500-3500 pounds estimate.) This piece is also mounted on a custom clear plexiglas/marble stand. Ex: Private English collection. I certify that this piece is authentic as to date, culture, and condition:
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