“Wonderful and intriguing” Early Bronze Age artefacts to go on display at the Corinium Museum

The artefacts were uncovered in 2017 during archaeological investigations by Foundations Archaeology at the site of Lechlade’s Memorial Hall. Excavations revealed an Early Bronze Age barrow containing two burials placed within a ring ditch, including a remarkable ‘chieftain’ burial with a ‘seated’ companion. 

The primary ‘chieftain’ burial was furnished with ‘head-and-hoof’ offerings, including four sets of cow skulls and hooves. While this type of ritual offering was common across Europe during the Bronze Age, it was far less common in Britain, where previous discoveries have typically involved only a single animal; making this grave particularly significant. Additional grave goods included a stone wrist-guard, a rare amber bead, a strike-a-light kit, and a copper dagger. 

The secondary burial of a ‘seated’ male contained one ‘head-and-hoof’ offering and three struck flints. Archaeologist Andrew Hood from Foundations Archaeology, who led the excavation, identified the burial as a Beaker-style (a prehistoric grave associated with the Bell beaker culture, named after the distinctive pottery jars often included in the burials) despite the absence of a Beaker pot. 

Andrew said: “As one of the field archaeologists who excavated the site, I am very happy that the general public will be able to see the wonderful and intriguing finds from the barrow. These burials were clearly highly significant in the Early Bronze Age, and they are testament to the rich and fascinating prehistory within and around Lechlade.” 

Emma Stuart, museum director, said: “This is a very significant collection of objects from the Early Bronze Age period. It is likely that the Beaker people brought metal technologies into Britain marking the gradual transition from using flint as the primary tool-making material to the use of metal tools for survival. The amber toggle is particularly special as it represents the earliest piece of amber in the museum’s collection and the whole assemblage has potential for further research due not only to the rich artefacts but also to the unusual burial practice associated with the Lechlade barrow.  

“I am incredibly grateful to the Museum Fundamentals team for recognising the importance of this site and associated objects. Without this funding, the objects would have remained in store and I feel it is important that the Bronze Age story and artefacts are shared with our visitors and the wider community to highlight the achievements and practices of early people who once ventured across the Cotswold landscape.” 

The display has been made possible by a Museum Fundamental grant supported by the Pilgrim Trust, the Julian Rausing Trust and the Association for Independent Museums. 

Fiona Woolley, programmes & grants officer, Association of Independent Museums (AIM) said: “AIM were delighted to have been able to support the conservation and display of the three objects from the Bronze Age Chieftains hoard. The project exemplifies how the AIM Museum Fundamentals grant enables small and medium museums to create impactful projects, centred around the care of and access to collections. This project stood out for its rich story and connection to the local area.”  

Councillor Tony Dale, cabinet member for health, culture, and visitor experience at Cotswold District Council, said: “This discovery is a remarkable step forward in improving our understanding of the Cotswolds’ earliest communities, and I am looking forward to these artefacts going on display for our residents and visitors. The Corinium Museum plays a vital role in bringing our district’s history to life and this new display will be a welcome addition to our vibrant cultural scene.” 

The objects have been conserved by the Conservation and Museums Advisory Service in Wiltshire so that they remain stable when on display to the public. The museum team are working with Redman Designs to create a highlight panel for the objects that will complement the existing prehistory displays. The artefacts are set to go on display on Sunday 29 March.