A splendid bronze shield boss, dating to the European Bronze Age. The boss has a curved discoid base with a flattened outer edge. There are raised concentric rings and a bronze sphere adorning the centre. On the reverse of the piece a small curved bronze band forms a buckle-like attachment point. The bronze has aged beautifully with grey and gold tones in the metal showing through a green patina. There is a small area of deterioration and roughness on the lip of the boss and some build up around the buckle on the reverse. The perspex mount pictured is included in the price. There is no permenant fixture however, and it will be up to the buyer to attach the boss as they wish. Shield bosses were placed at the centre of round shields and were originally intended to deflect the blows to the shield. They become more elaborate over time and eventually become more of a decorative feature. Such shields have been largely recovered from European Bronze Age graves. Burial customs and grave goods were of great importance across Bronze Age Europe. It is in graves that many of the most impressive and interesting Bronze Age items have been found, as the Bronze Age saw a rise in individual graves which they filled with precious items. Measurements: Circa 6.2cm diameter Provenance: EX J.L. Collection, Surrey