Britons in blue: A contextual analysis of corporeal painting in Great Britain, from the Iron Age to the early Middle Ages

Abstract

Ancient sources frequently mention body painting as a practice in Great Britain. This custom, which is mentioned in continuity from the days of Julius Caesar to the Anglo-Saxon era, has not yet been confirmed by archaeological and iconographic evidence, but there are enough indicators to promote continued research. Textual and archaeological analysis shows there may have been an evolution in the practice between the Iron Age and the Early Middle Ages, when new religious and cultural spheres would have led to eventual extinction. Although presented by Caesar as a military practice, corporeal painting may have extended to other spheres of ancient societies, including aesthetic purposes and religious rites.