Iron Age
The Iron Age is the time when iron was first used for metal tools and weapons, although bronze was still commonly used. This time is also associated with the arrival of Celtic-speaking peoples into Ireland who practised a very distinctive art style. The museum's collection of Iron Age objects is quite small but includes some very fine objects.
Iron Age Metalwork
Iron Age objects in the collections include brooches, horse-bits, spearheads, swords and scabbards. Some of the finest objects are: a unique decorated bronze spearhead from Moy, County Tyrone; a wooden tankard with decorated bronze fittings from Carrickfergus, County Antrim; and, several decorate...
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Iron Age Art
The art style is known as the 'La Tène' style and was used by Celtic peoples throughout Europe. Art motifs include a range of curvilinear patterns and stylised animal heads. These motifs were used to decorate sword scabbards, spearheads and personal ornaments such as brooches (fibula)...
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