Today’s was about Celtic Bronze age drinking vessels - the Basse Yutz Flagons - and covered the history and myths of Celtic culture. Very Interesting, and narrated by Barry Cunliffe – one of my favourites – who as far as I know is open to the fusion of archaeology and genetics posited by Ishtar here:
http://www.ishtarsgate.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=28&t=938
Here’s the link to the programme on Listen again:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00qsvj3/A_History_of_the_World_in_100_Objects_The_World_in_the_Age_of_Confucius_%28500_300_BC%29_Basse_Yutz_Flagons/
And here’s a summary of the programme
Neil MacGregor's history of the world recounted through objects at the British Museum arrives in Northern Europe 2,500 years ago.
Neil explores the early world of the Celts through two bronze drinking flagons, considered to be the most important and earliest examples of Celtic art. Writer Jonathan Meades and Barry Cunliffe, one of the world's leading experts on this period, help describe the Celts, dissect the stereotypes and consider their celebrated love of drink.
I have no idea where the reputation for drinking came for or why it still persists (and I don’t think they’re talking about water or milk. Quite a bizarre idea.
Pass the flagon, friend...
Caigwyn
