La Tène dagger
Medium:Forged iron blade, ashwood sheath with bronze ornament
Geography: Westminster Bridge, London, United Kingdom
Date: about 600-500 BC
Period: British Iron Age
Object number: 927.103.A
Gallery Location:Eaton Gallery of Rome: Britain and Ireland to the time of the Romans
DescriptionPrehistoric Celtic culture is also named La Tène after a noted Swiss archaeological site. It is exemplified by rich warrior burials, some containing chariots and imported metalware. The distinctive art style, both symbolic and surrealistic, is based on long curling patterns in which motif and background are interchangeable.