Britain is a land steeped in history, but the Ryedale hoard is one of the most impressive finds yet. These unique artifacts offer a rare insight.

: Michael-Robert.

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Feb 2, 2013
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Britain is a land steeped in history, but the Ryedale hoard is one of the most impressive finds yet. These unique artifacts offer a rare insight into Romano British life.

The Ryedale Hoard, a group of four stunning bronze objects, has become the focus of a captivating exhibition at the Yorkshire Museum. Unearthed near Ryedale, North Yorkshire, this discovery offers a glimpse into Britain's Roman past. One intriguing artifact is an imperial scepter head bust, possibly depicting Emperor Marcus Aurelius . Its detailed craftsmanship and provincial style suggest it was created in Britain, even though the artist may have never seen the emperor in person. Another captivating piece is a small figurine of the god Mars, portrayed as a horse and rider. The intricate details, including the crested helmet and ornate horse harness, highlight the significance of Mars in Roman Britain, particularly among soldiers.

The hoard also features a unique plum bob, a tool used for construction projects. Its larger size and elaborate design make it a rare find, raising questions about its purpose and inclusion in the hoard. Lastly, a broken key, said to possess magical properties, adds to the enigmatic nature of the collection. Despite its damaged state, the key handle showcases remarkable craftsmanship. This exhibition provides a fascinating insight into Britain's Roman history , allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and mystery of these objects. The Ryedale Hoard continues to intrigue, shedding light on ancient beliefs and customs in Roman Yorkshire.

Video: https://www.ancient-origins.net/videos/ryedale-hoard-0018779
 

'The Mystery Of This Roman Treasure Hoard Found in Britain' History Hit's Tristan Hughes has special access to the Ryedale Hoard: A Roman Mystery exhibition at the Yorkshire Museum to speak to the people responsible for its discovery and investigate these incredible Roman artefacts. Featuring the remarkable 1,800 year old bust of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the Ryedale Hoard has been described as Yorkshire’s most significant Roman discovery. Offering a rare insight into Romano British life in Yorkshire, these unique artefacts help shed light on a period shrouded in mystery. But one question still remain: who was responsible for burying them?

[23min video]:
 

Fabulous objects. The detectorists James Spark and Mark Didlick found them in May 2020 and properly declared them so that they could be documented under the Portable Antiquities Scheme. They were judged at inquest not to be “Treasure” under our “Treasure Act 1996” since they were not composed of precious metals. The museum authorities therefore didn't have the option of "first refusal" and the group went to private auction, with proceeds going to the finders and landowner. They were originally valued at between £70,000 and £90,000 but sold for £185,000. The Yorkshire Museum later purchased them from the successful bidder with assistance from private donors and the Art Fund charity.
 

A nice bit of treasure that almost slipped through the governments fingers. Rules are rules and it’s great the scheme occasionally favors the finder and not the gov. I’d say its the fairest deal you would get from about any gov anywhere.
 

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