Ancient Bronze and Iron Bracelet Pair | 1st to 3rd Century AD
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Ancient Bronze and Iron Bracelet Pair | 1st to 3rd Century AD
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Near East (Mesopotamia to Levant or Anatolia)
Material: Bronze and iron
Period: Bronze to Iron Age (circa 6th millennium BCE – 7th century CE)
Description
This pair of ancient bracelets reflects the long tradition of personal adornment and metalworking across the ancient Near East. The group consists of a substantial bronze cuff with an open-ended form and naturally developed green patination, accompanied by an iron bracelet distinguished by its darker, textured archaeological surface.
Together, the two pieces illustrate the use of different metals in ancient jewelry production, from cast copper-alloy ornaments to iron adornments associated with later developments in metallurgy. Their contrasting surfaces, materials, and forms give the pair a particularly strong archaeological character.
Features
- Pair of ancient bronze and iron bracelets
- Broad bronze cuff with open-ended construction and green patination
- Iron bracelet with dark, textured archaeological surface
- Naturally developed oxidation and mineral deposits consistent with age
- Contrasting metals demonstrate ancient traditions of personal adornment and metalworking
Cultural Significance
Bracelets were widely worn throughout the ancient Near East as forms of personal adornment and could also communicate identity, social standing, wealth, or cultural affiliation. Bronze remained one of the most important materials for jewelry and decorative objects throughout antiquity, while the increasing use of iron reflected important technological developments in ancient metallurgy. Surviving examples such as these offer a tangible connection to the everyday dress and material culture of ancient societies.
Condition
Both bracelets retain substantial archaeological patination and surface wear consistent with age. The bronze cuff displays areas of green oxidation, while the iron bracelet retains a darker and more textured surface. Wear, oxidation, mineral deposits, and surface irregularities are present throughout and contribute to their authentic archaeological character.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Bronze cuff diameter: 5.5 in
Iron bracelet diameter: 7 in
Age (Approximate)
1,325–7,025 years old
Provenance
Acquired from Alex G. Malloy, a long-established New York dealer, auctioneer, and author specializing in ancient and medieval art, antiquities, and numismatics. Malloy conducted numerous specialist auctions and published catalogues and reference works on ancient artefacts and coinage. Subsequently held in a private collection in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, and later handled by Palmyra Heritage Gallery in 2024.
Learn More
Explore the historical development of jewelry at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Browse our collection of Ancient Jewelry.
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Near East (Mesopotamia to Levant or Anatolia)
Material: Bronze and iron
Period: Bronze to Iron Age (circa 6th millennium BCE – 7th century CE)
Description
This pair of ancient bracelets reflects the long tradition of personal adornment and metalworking across the ancient Near East. The group consists of a substantial bronze cuff with an open-ended form and naturally developed green patination, accompanied by an iron bracelet distinguished by its darker, textured archaeological surface.
Together, the two pieces illustrate the use of different metals in ancient jewelry production, from cast copper-alloy ornaments to iron adornments associated with later developments in metallurgy. Their contrasting surfaces, materials, and forms give the pair a particularly strong archaeological character.
Features
- Pair of ancient bronze and iron bracelets
- Broad bronze cuff with open-ended construction and green patination
- Iron bracelet with dark, textured archaeological surface
- Naturally developed oxidation and mineral deposits consistent with age
- Contrasting metals demonstrate ancient traditions of personal adornment and metalworking
Cultural Significance
Bracelets were widely worn throughout the ancient Near East as forms of personal adornment and could also communicate identity, social standing, wealth, or cultural affiliation. Bronze remained one of the most important materials for jewelry and decorative objects throughout antiquity, while the increasing use of iron reflected important technological developments in ancient metallurgy. Surviving examples such as these offer a tangible connection to the everyday dress and material culture of ancient societies.
Condition
Both bracelets retain substantial archaeological patination and surface wear consistent with age. The bronze cuff displays areas of green oxidation, while the iron bracelet retains a darker and more textured surface. Wear, oxidation, mineral deposits, and surface irregularities are present throughout and contribute to their authentic archaeological character.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Bronze cuff diameter: 5.5 in
Iron bracelet diameter: 7 in
Age (Approximate)
1,325–7,025 years old
Provenance
Acquired from Alex G. Malloy, a long-established New York dealer, auctioneer, and author specializing in ancient and medieval art, antiquities, and numismatics. Malloy conducted numerous specialist auctions and published catalogues and reference works on ancient artefacts and coinage. Subsequently held in a private collection in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, and later handled by Palmyra Heritage Gallery in 2024.
Learn More
Explore the historical development of jewelry at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Browse our collection of Ancient Jewelry.
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