The Etruscans occupied the central region of Italy, around modern-day Tuscany from the 8th century BC to around 2nd century BC. Etruria was rich in metals and Etruscans exported bronze products all over the Mediterranean. Many bronze objects were made, as was this fibula, from lost-wax casting. This method covers a wax model with clay, then fired the clay into a hard mould and in the process melt the wax out. Next molten bronze was poured into the mould, taking the shape of the original wax. The fibula, was a specialised pin, used to fasten clothing, especially mantles, a loose outer garment. The serpentine or dragon type (serpeggiante o drago) fibulae with little or no decoration are usually associated with men. Boat-shaped or leech-shaped (sanguisuga) fibulae are more associated with women because the curved and rounded form give more space for decoration.
Etruscan history and literature had barely survived. Hence despite being the most influential pre-Roman civilization of the western Mediterranean, they remain elusive to this day. Fortunately, their vibrant culture could be glimpsed from elaborate wall paintings in the Etruscan necropolises of Tarquinia, Cerveteri, Chiusi, and Vulci. They depict lively mythological scenes, rituals and daily life especially decadent symposia. Many fibulae, being intimate objects of their owners were unearthed in these sole surviving remnants of a glorious yet enigmatic civilisation.
