You would be forgiven for thinking this masterpiece of Gold working was discovered in an ancient Egyptian tomb coated in the dust of time. But no, this exquisite artwork was unearthed in a muddy field in a town called Mold in North Wales. The burial mound containing the treasure was called Bryn Yr Ellyllon or the Fairies Hill. Apt name.
The Golden Cape dates from around 1900 BC. Its decoration is very similar to some of the detailing on the golden conical hats and other treasures found on the continent. Although it is older and further west than all the conical hats yet found.
The shape and size are said to suit the build of a female, which makes sense as far as receptivity goes. Women, in general, are more receptive with males having to work harder to achieve similar results; particularly through Creative energy preservation. (generalisation - individuals differ!).
This would support the idea that these items were worn to improve receptivity and sensitivity. Worn by the highly intuitive among the community at times and sites of sacred veneration - to heighten insight.
The Cape itself covers the whole of the upper arm rendering the bearer motionless at the shoulders, this is in keeping with the ritualistic idea.
In addition, this marvellous piece was found with 300 Amber beads likely from the Baltic, along with bronze sheets probably used as support/backing. It is interesting to note for provenance that in Wales there is the great Orme copper mine, the largest and best copper mine in the ancient known world. There is also the great tin mines of Cornwall and the west country, said to be the biggest and best tin deposit in the ancient world. Add to this the Gold rich area of Western Great Britain and a recipe for an advanced bronze age Britain emerges.
It would not surprise me in the slightest if at one time in the past this beautiful Cape was accompanied by a wonderful Golden conical hat or skull cap of its own.
Most of these Golden objects have been linked to ceremony and ritual with many now making the connection to ancient "wizards" or more appropriately Magicians.
The term Magician has its modern root in the Magi of Persian lore and tradition; these great adepts were said to be star glazers (astronomers) and fire-worshippers connected with the Zoroastrian faith.
The Ma or Mag and Mahg prefix have interesting connotations in the west also; the Irish tradition of the Magian priesthood is a good connection, but I would like to draw some light upon the Welsh etymological thread -
The Welsh term Mag - the act of rearing or bringing up or educating.
Magadwr - one who nurses or rears.
Magddu - the fountain of blackness or seat of darkness.
Magdan - the generation of fire! Light and heat!
And my favourite: Magi - a principle of Generation.
Here, for me, we see the link of Magi or Magic with the Generative principle or the Creative principle. And, when this principle is preserved, through certain practices and exercises, the results can be magic.
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