While excavating a road project in South Glamorgan, Wales, archaeologists uncovered a Bronze Age tomb. The finds include an exquisite gold hair ring and the oldest wooden comb ever found in the UK.
Experts believe these 3,000-year-old objects found next to cremated human remains provide a valuable insight into the attention to detail and craftsmanship of a Bronze Age civilization. Archeonews speculate that mourners deliberately chose these items to accompany the deceased in the afterlife.
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Measuring only 36 mm, the wooden comb has eight narrow teeth. It is quite exceptional that this comb piece has survived over time. Organic artifacts, such as wood, usually decompose rapidly in the soil, but in this case it is likely that the cremation treatment on the honeycomb will contribute to its preservation.
According to the Red River Archaeological Group, this wooden comb may be the oldest ever found in England. Until now, the previous record holder was a small Roman comb dated between 140 and 180 AD.
The 1.1cm diameter gold hair ring showcases exceptional craftsmanship and intricate herringbone pattern detailing. It is believed to be an early example of decorative hair accessories.
It is very difficult to determine the gender of the person who owns the comb and ring. However, the craftsmanship shown to make the ring most likely indicates that it belonged to a high-status person.
Mark Collard, director of the Red River Archaeological Group, expressed his admiration for the find, saying: “We often find metal fragments and various artifacts, but the comb find is truly extraordinary. It provides a rare glimpse into the privacy of Bronze Age people.”
Noting the importance of the wooden comb, David Gilbert, Project Manager of the Red River Archaeological Group, said: “While the golden ring is visually stunning, the wooden comb is the most noteworthy. It is unique in Wales and perhaps the entire UK, this finding said, It shows the attention to detail and pride in their appearance that is often overlooked in popular media portrayals of prehistoric people.”
Previously Focus The British wrote about an artifact from Fort Vindolanda: actually the owner of the Roman bronze hand.
We also talked about the artifacts of Kievan Rus: Ukrainian archaeologists made incredible discoveries in Medzhybizh.
Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.