Torc

As a spiral ring or torc (pronounced [ tɔk: wɘz ], torquere from the Latin, " rotate ", engl torc, double torque. ) Is in archeology called an open Choker of La Tène, whose appearance often resembles a twisted rope and the end pieces often can be particularly shaped (also called punch ends ) as a buffer, animal head or ball formed. Torc (English torc ) is also available in Ireland and the Iberian Peninsula (Castro culture). As Torque's only open neck rings, but not closed twisted bangles apply.

Archaeologists have found in the UK and in Ireland, particularly in Northern Ireland, about 120 so-called Bandtorcs. Bandtorcs are made of a thinner gold stripe twisted rings. End of the 2nd millennium BC, Bandtorcs were introduced in the form of imported bronzes in the southern Great Britain and Ireland. In addition to bands and rods were twisted.

Description

The term comes from ancient sources, where a corresponding Choker is often mentioned, especially - but not only - in relation to the historical Celts. In addition to written sources, the statue of the Dying Gaul shows the use of the torque among the Celts. He was adopted by the Romans as a military award. The torc spread throughout the Mediterranean and the Arab world.

Torques are since at least the Middle Bronze Age well attested in the Middle East. They were among the Scythians, the Persians and related peoples such as the Parthians part of the regular costume.

The torc seems to have been a symbol of power among the Celts, but also idols wearing torc, and the silver ring of Trichtingen is too heavy for a man. Torques are often made of precious metal and elaborately decorated at the ends. They are busy men and women's graves, but they are also individually in Horten before.

In late antiquity, Roman emperors were often crowned since Julian the Apostate, as part of its collection with a torc instead of a tiara.

Examples

  • Gold Treasure Niederzier
  • Pure Home
  • La Tène
  • Waldalgesheim
  • Princely tomb of Vix
  • Fund of Beringen (Belgium )
  • Fund of Blair Drummond (Scotland )
4th century BC Near East Snettisham Hoard Broighter Gold Beringen, Belgium County Fermanagh Pierre Montet
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