Fibulae or brooches were originally used in Ancient Greece and in the Roman Empire for fastening garments, such as cloaks or togae. The fibula designs developed into a variety of shapes, but all were based on the safety-pin principle. The Roman’s conquests spread Roman culture and therefore the use of the fibula, which became the basis for more complex and highly decorated brooches, modelled in bronze, silver and gold and further enriched with precious and semi-precious gemstones. Fibulae are the most common artefact-type in burials and settlements throughout much of the continental Europe. By the Middle Ages, the Roman safety pin type of fibula had fallen into disuse. The Bagendon type is generally dated within the first half of the 1st century AD thus mainly pre-Roman. This type has similar features to the Aucissa brooch but is notable by the rows of knobs along the side edges.
Roman Bronze ‘Bagendon’ Bow Brooch
£ 125.00
A very fine ancient Roman bronze ‘Bagendon’ type brooch, characterised by the decorative knobs adorning the sides of a wide, D-shaped bow. Three vertical ridges, each adorned with small hatched incisions, line the surface of the bow and lead to flat, horizontal terminals. A rounded head develops at the top, capped on either side by two spherical finials, one now chipped. The original bronze pin extends from the hinge, now fixed in place. A curved foot with a triangular catchplate is adorned with a hemispherical finial at the base. A beautiful, vibrant green patina covers the bronze, and minor wear such as scratches, abrasion, minor chipping, and earthy encrustations features to the surface.
Condition: Very good. Vibrant patination to the bronze. Wear, chips, and earthy encrustations to the surface.
In stock
| Weight | 9.4 g |
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| Dimensions | L 4.5 x W 1.2 x H 2.4 cm |
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