Iron Age carnyx discovered in Norfolk may have links to Boudicca

Archaeologists in Norfolk found a bronze Iron Age carnyx, the third recorded in Britain; the hoard is under conservation and a coroner will decide its legal status under the Treasure Act.

A bronze carnyx, an Iron Age war trumpet, was uncovered during excavations in west Norfolk ahead of a housing development. The instrument was found with a group of Iron Age military objects and is reported as unusually complete. The site lies within the historic territory of the Iceni, the tribe associated with Boudicca, and archaeologists estimate the hoard was buried in the first century AD. Conservators at Norfolk Museums Service are carrying out work on the fragile items before detailed study. What is known: - The find was made during archaeological excavations in west Norfolk last summer. - The bronze carnyx is described as only the third recorded in Britain and is reported as the most complete example found to date. - The hoard included a bronze boar's head battle standard, described as unique in Britain, and five shield bosses. - The site falls within the historic territory of the Iceni and the hoard is estimated to date to the first century AD. - The artefacts are undergoing conservation and their legal status is currently with a coroner under the Treasure Act 1996. Summary: The discovery may contribute to understanding Iron Age sound, music and military display, given the rarity and condition of the carnyx and associated objects. Conservation work is ongoing and the coroner will determine the hoard’s legal status under the Treasure Act 1996, after which detailed research can proceed. The find will be shown on the television programme Digging for Britain in mid-January.