Celtic filigree from the seventh to the ninth century AD, with particular reference to that on brooches
The aim of this thesis is to provide full descriptions, based on microscopic and other detailed examination and some experimentation, of the methods of manufacture and characteristics of the filigree on Celtic brooches and thence to derive conclusions as to the origin of the style and the dates and interrelationships of individual objects. Firstly, study both of manufacturing techniques and of motifs shows that Celtic filigree has much in common with Early Medieval Germanic work. Anglo-Saxon influence is particularly strong, but some decorative details may have been derived directly from Merovingian and Lombardic sources. Scandinavian influence, however, appears to have been transmitted via Anglo-Saxon England. Secondly, the manufacture of filigree in Ireland and Scotland probably started in the seventh century. Its development shows a gradual departure from Anglo-Saxon prototypes, as Celtic goldsmiths developed new techniques and forms and adapted to local taste. A complex and virtuouso style is already evident by the late seventh century. Extremely intricate and delicate pieces of filigree continued to be produced throughout the eighth and probably into the early ninth century, and the style continued with
Whitfield, Niamh
Archaeology
Celtic filigree from the seventh to the ninth century AD, with particular reference to that on brooches. The aim of this thesis is to provide full descriptions, based on microscopic and other detailed examination and some experimentation, of the methods of manufacture and characteristics of the filigree on Celtic brooches and thence to derive conclusions as to the origin of the style and the dates and interrelationships of individual objects. Firstly, study both of manufacturing techniques and of motifs shows that Celtic filigree has much in common with Early Medieval Germanic work. Anglo-Saxon influence is particularly strong, but some decorative details may have been derived directly from Merovingian and Lombardic sources. Scandinavian influence, however, appears to have been transmitted via Anglo-Saxon England. Secondly, the manufacture of filigree in Ireland and Scotland probably started in the seventh century. Its development shows a gradual departure from Anglo-Saxon prototypes, as Celtic goldsmiths developed new techniques and forms and adapted to local taste. A complex and virtuouso style is already evident by the late seventh century. Extremely intricate and delicate pieces of filigree continued to be produced throughout the eighth and probably into the early ninth century, and the style continued with
celtic particular_reference brooch aim_provide full_description base microscopic detail_examination experimentation method_manufacture characteristic celtic brooch thence derive conclusion origin style date individual object firstly study manufacture_technique motif show celtic much common early medieval germanic work anglo_saxon influence particularly strong decorative detail may derive directly source scandinavian influence however_appear transmitted via anglo_saxon_england secondly manufacture ireland_scotland probably start development show gradual departure anglo_saxon prototype celtic develop_new technique form adapt local taste complex style already evident late extremely intricate delicate piece continue produce throughout eighth probably style continue