Style and style groupings in continental early La Tène art

Abstract

Abstract Fine metal‐work of La Tene Ia/A1–2 date, mainly associated with early Furstengraber, is examined in an attempt to establish individual ‘schools’ or workshop traditions, particular emphasis being placed on non‐representational motifs of ultimately classical origin. Two general groups of gold‐work are postulated, and consideration is given to related objects exhibiting complex engraved designs. A final section discusses the possible conclusions to be drawn from the distributions of individual classes of objects. Although this paper is not strictly concerned with the non‐Celtic artistic origins of individual styles and motifs, the importance of Italy is emphasized.