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Neck Ring (Torque)

600 BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 301
The design of this torque is deceptive. It appears to be wrapped with a wide, flat wire that changes direction six times. In fact, the complex pattern has been cut into the metal. Although it is not known where this object was found, torques such as this have been discovered in peat bogs where it is thought that they were cast as offerings to a god or goddess or as symbols of thanksgiving.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Neck Ring (Torque)
  • Date: 600 BCE
  • Culture: Scandinavian
  • Medium: Copper alloy
  • Dimensions: Overall: 8 3/8 x 8 11/16 x 11/16 in. (21.3 x 22 x 1.7 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork-Copper alloy
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Nathaniel Spear Jr. Gift, 1987
  • Object Number: 1987.395
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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