Unknown Maker, European

The four large, carefully crafted spirals on this bronze diadem exemplify a simple design element popularized during the European Bronze Age (1200-800 BCE). The spiral motif typically appeared as an embellishment on jewelry and other objects of personal adornment. This ornate diadem, likely the possession of a person of wealth and prominence, effectively conveyed the status of the owner. Years of burial have lent a rich, green patina to the original golden-brown surface of the diadem. This object was most likely found buried among similar pieces of bronze jewelry and bronze weapons in a grave at the Austrian site of Hallstatt.