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.
Roman Bronze Bow Brooch
£ 95.00
A fine, Roman bronze brooch, cast in bronze, featuring a thin, highly arched D-shaped bow. The head of the brooch is made from a coiled piece of bronze from which the pin has been extended. The original pin sits in the unadorned catch plate, now fixed in place. Dark green patination is visible to the surface along with earthly encrustation.
Provenance: From an important European private collection, 1980s-2000s.
Condition: Fine condition, minor chips along the bow’s edges and the catch plate. Some scratching consistent with age.
In stock
| Weight | 7.8 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | L 4.7 x W 1.8 cm |
| Culture | |
| Metal | |
| Region |
