During excavations as part of a road construction project in South Glamorgan, Wales, archaeologists uncovered a Bronze Age burial site. The finds include an exquisite gold hair ring, as well as the oldest wooden comb ever found in the United Kingdom.
Experts believe that these 3,000-year-old objects, found alongside cremated human remains, provide valuable insight into the attention to detail and craftsmanship of Bronze Age civilization. They suggest that mourners deliberately chose these objects to accompany the deceased in the afterlife.
The wooden comb, measuring just 36 mm, has eight narrow teeth. The fact that this comb fragment has survived over time is quite exceptional. Organic artifacts such as wood usually decompose quickly in the soil, but in this case, the exposure of the comb to the cremation process may have contributed to its preservation.
According to the Red River Archaeological Group, this wooden comb may be the oldest ever found in Britain. So far, the previous record holder was a small Roman comb dating from between 140 and 180 AD.
Measuring 1.1cm in diameter, the gold hair ring shows extraordinary craftsmanship and an intricate herringbone pattern finish. It is believed to be an early example of decorative hair accessories.
It is difficult to determine the gender of the person to whom the comb and ring belonged. However, the skill demonstrated in making the ring suggests that it most likely belonged to a person of high status.
Mark Collard, director of the Red River Archaeology Group, expressed his delight at the find, stating, “We often find metal fragments and various artifacts, but the comb find is truly extraordinary. It provides a rare glimpse into the private lives of Bronze Age people.”
While the gold ring may be visually mesmerizing, the wooden comb is most noteworthy. His find, unparalleled in Wales and perhaps the whole of the UK, shows an attention to detail and pride in appearance that is often overlooked in popular media portrayals of prehistoric people.