Description

Summary: 2 fossil encrinite beads, found with a primary inhumation in Bowl Barrow Wilsford G7, excavated by William Cunnington

Research results

This object was examined as part of the research published in Ritual in Early Bronze Age Grave Goods; a six-year research project carried out by Professor John Hunter and Dr Anne Woodward and funded by the Leverhulme Trust. Aided by a large number of other specialists the pair undertood an exhuastive study examining over 1000 objects held in 13 museums across the country in order to provide an extensive overview of burial practices in the period and identify regional practices.

Two fossil encrinite beads found with a primary inhumation in Bowl Barrow Wilsford G7, excavated by William Cunnington in the early 19th century. The beads were buried with an individual placed with their head to the west and with a collared urn at their feet. In addition, a number of other beads, pendants and an insence cup were also found. The grave goods come from a variety of sources and show varying degrees of wear. They may have been accumulated piecemeal over time and some may even have been heirlooms by the time of their deposition.