A knee-cap, an empty knee-cap, a rim

The anklet was found in Gniewino in 1885, with other bronze hoards discovered during spring ploughing. Another part of the same hoard was discovered the same year, in summer. The hoard, dated to the early phase of the Iron Age (ca. 600/550–450/400 BC), consisted of anklets, bracelets, and a neck-ring; approximately 20 objects in total, that were allotted to various museums.

The presented hollow anklet is decorated with zigzag and herringbone patterns. A groove through which the clay core (used for casting) was removed is visible inside it. A robust shape and excellent condition are noticeable.

Items found in hoards are the primary source of data used for the Bronze Age studies. Especially in terms of a multifaceted interdisciplinary approach, they provide valuable information about trade networks as well as social and economic situations. Both a detailed analysis of the discovery background and the laboratory analyses are crucial. An analysis of the bronze used to make two anklets similar to the one described, as well as the bracelet from the treasure found in Gdynia-Karwiny, revealed a high content of antimony and lead that cause an increased brittleness of the alloy. That may indicate that those objects were designated as a votive offering or had a symbolic meaning enhancing the high social status of its owner.

Monika Witek