017396

The Mold gold cape. from Flintshire, North Wales, Bronze Age, about 1900-1600 BC. Workmen quarrying for stone in an ancient burial mound in 1833 found this unique ceremonial gold cape, which remains unparalleled to this day. The mound lay in a field named Bryn yr Ellyllon (the Fairies' or Goblins' Hill). The cape would have been unsuitable for everyday wear because it would have severely restricted upper arm movement. Instead it would have served ceremonial roles, and may have denoted religious authority.

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Filename: 017396.JPG
Copyright: Irish Photo Archive
Image Size: 5000x3525 / 2.5MB; Metal work
Contained in galleries: Recently uploaded historical photos 3

The Mold gold cape. from Flintshire, North Wales, Bronze Age, about 1900-1600 BC. Workmen quarrying for stone in an ancient burial mound in 1833 found this unique ceremonial gold cape, which remains unparalleled to this day. The mound lay in a field named Bryn yr Ellyllon (the Fairies' or Goblins' Hill). The cape would have been unsuitable for everyday wear because it would have severely restricted upper arm movement. Instead it would have served ceremonial roles, and may have denoted religious authority.