Sub-Roman Britain (Cavalry etc)

[Agraes]

The dragon and pearl originated in China, found on Sun Quan's sword, again on a sword now in the Met, and still used in Bhuddist gongs. It was never British or even Western European... until adopted, or carried forward, onto the Equites Taifali Iuniore's shield. This outside influence was strong enough to make a significant impression on British folk memory, probably enhanced by the Roman cavalry draco.

The Notitia Dignitatum also has two clipei with a Yin Yang symbol - yet we do not consider that one to be froma strong Asiatic influence on the Roman military. Some symbols are alike, yet developed independently.

Those symbols appears to be of celtic origin. At least they occured in celtic art

We also do have dragons/worms in LaTène celtic art.

Here on sword chapes:



We could also add the northern british dragon broochs, dated from the 1-3rd centuries AD.
Given the persistance of ultimate LaTene art in Britain and Ireland in the early medieval period, we could have 'dragons' either of celtic or roman origin. Or both...