Archaeologists have discovered a unique bronze war trumpet from the Iron Age in Norfolk, England. Scientists believe it may have belonged to the Celtic Iceni tribe, led by legendary Queen Boudicca in a rebellion against Roman invaders. The tube, known as a carnyx, is the third such discovery in Britain and one of the best preserved in the world, the report said. Guardian.
The artifact is made in the shape of a growling wild animal's head. In ancient times, it was attached to a long pole and carried high above the army. The loud and shrill sound of this instrument is said to frighten enemies before battle.
Carnix was found during excavations prior to the construction of a housing estate in the western part of the district. Other valuable items were also found with him: five shield hilts and a bronze battle standard in the shape of a boar's head – no analogues have yet been found in England.
Interestingly, the treasure was buried on the land of the Iceni tribe. It was this tribe that launched a large-scale, albeit unsuccessful, uprising against the Romans under the leadership of Boudicca in the 60s AD. Archaeologists believe that valuable objects were hidden in the 1st century AD, around that time. Mark Hinman, executive director of Pre-Construct Archaeology, which specializes in conducting excavations, called the find extraordinary.
“This happens once in a lifetime, once in a lifetime,” the archaeologist said. “I have been excavating for more than 40 years but have never seen anything like this.”
According to him, the artifacts themselves are rare, but their possible connection to one of the most famous figures of British antiquity makes the discovery even more important. Now fragile objects are undergoing complex restoration, after which they will be able to be studied in detail. Mark Hinman notes that the carnyx was clearly used a long time ago and was actively used – traces of ancient repairs can be seen on it. Before hiding, the device was partially disassembled and the shields were carefully placed on top. “The entire bell” and the head are relatively intact. This is the only Carnyx found that still has movable ears. They are simply stunning,” the archaeologist shared in detail.
Fraser Hunter, a leading Iron Age expert at the National Museums of Scotland, also praised the find. He notes that studying it will “dramatically expand our understanding of the Iron Age world” and transform our understanding of the role of sound and music in that era.
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