Bronze Age gold torcs, Oak Farm (EHER 18043)

Three segments of Bronze Age gold torc were found by metal detectorists in 1991. They comprise three similar sections of four-flanged twisted bar torc. On stylistic grounds, and using the relatively few datable associations, these are assigned to the later Middle Bronze Age, around 1200-1000 BC.

Three gold torc segments were found by metal detectorists in 1991 (now in Colchester Museum). They comprise three similar sections of four-flanged twisted bar torc. On stylistic grounds, and using the relatively few datable associations, these are assigned to the later Middle Bronze Age, around 1200-1000 BC. <1> The torcs were found only inches apart in ploughsoil at little more than 6 inches deep. The finders marked the exact place of discovery, thus enabling the Essex County Council Archaeology Section to dig a trench by hand, 2m square at the find spot. No further items of relevance were recovered and there was no trace of any associated pit or feature. A shallow disturbed area was noted in the centre of the trench, which was thought to be a hole dug when the torcs were recovered. This disturbance could not be traced below about 0.2m from the present ground surface. The cleaned surface of the natural gravel revealed an ill-defined curving feature, but excavation of this feature indicated a natural origin. <1> <2> Note: The torcs were found within a cropmark complex thought to be of Iron Age or Roman date (see EHER 7993).