Bronze Age Collared Urn

Handcrafted Replica Bronze Age Collared Urn

Details

In the early to mid-Bronze Age, the cremated remains of the dead were often placed in collared urns, which were then inverted into clay or stone-lined pits and sealed with a stone slab. A cairn (mound of stones) would then be constructed over the burial.

To keep the contents secure during burial, it is likely that a piece of cloth or leather was stretched over the collar and tied in place.

Many examples of collared urns have been found across Britain, including discoveries along the Thames and at Ham Common near Petersham. This particular urn is inspired by finds from Carneddau Cairn near Carno, Wales.

Historical Context

Collared urns were a common burial practice in Bronze Age Britain (c. 2200–1500 BCE). They were highly decorated and often placed in family burial cairns, providing insight into the funerary rituals and beliefs of the time.

Archaeologists believe these urns were carefully placed upside down in pits, which helped preserve the remains for thousands of years.

Materials

• Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 205 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 210 mm

Production

As with all my Museum Quality Replicas, this urn has been entirely hand-built, using coarse clay, as the original potters would have done.

• The decoration was applied using whipped cord or comb impressions, forming geometric or herringbone patterns.
• The urn was fired in an open bonfire, replicating the authentic mottled surface colouration of Bronze Age originals.

Firing Process

• The original urn would have been fired in an open wood fire, where the pot was in direct contact with the fuel, creating natural variations in surface colour.
• However, the low temperatures of open firings result in weaker pottery, so this urn has been fired at a slightly higher temperature to strengthen it while maintaining authenticity.

Health & Safety

This is a Museum Quality Replica and not intended for use as a functional vessel.

• If you require replica pots suitable for food or beverages, please contact me before purchasing.

Ordering Information

• 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
• 'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.

Shipping

• All items are sent via second-class postal service as standard.
• If you require first-class shipping, please contact me for a custom quote.

Own a piece of Bronze Age history with this handcrafted replica Collared Urn. Order today!