Commonly mentioned as spoils of war and made from different metals, torcs were not merely military decorations for men. Quite possibly such necklaces served as indications of ranks, status and power. Torcs may also have had religious associations as such objects appear on the figures of Bronze Age and Celtic deities. Designs could vary from very simple to extremely elaborate pieces, in various metals, including gold. Some torcs were probably used as rattles during rituals, or otherwise, because of their great size and weight, put on statues as votive offerings.
To learn more about art and culture in the Bronze Age, visit our relevant blog post: The Bronze Age.
