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. Most pins were produced from bronze or iron however, precious metals such as gold have been used, owned by those of a higher status to demonstrate their wealth and power. The brooch itself can take many different forms and decorations, the trumpet brooch, such as this fine example, displays a decorative knob half way between the leg and upper bow, the head of the brooch is also slightly enlarged to hide the spring and give a neat appearance.
Romano-Celtic Bronze Trumpet Brooch
£ 225.00
A very fine, large and heavy Romano-Celtic trumpet brooch cast from bronze, featuring a long and narrow arched body. The original pin retains some mobility and is attached by a spring at the head of the bow. The body is richly decorated with three discoid knobs, separating the leg from the head; the smaller knobs frame the larger central one, which is sided by decorative foliage rendered in low-relief. The head is adorned with an intricate geometric pattern executed in relief, whilst the more sober leg displays a central rib and is lined with opposing ovoid knobs.
This piece was found in Gloucestershire in the 1980s.
Provenance: From a Surrey gentleman's collection (D.G.), purchased on the London Art market from ADA member, 1990s - onwards.
Condition: Very fine condition, some patination covers the surface.
SOLD
| Weight | 34.9 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | L 7 x W 2.2 x H 3.2 cm |
| Culture | |
| Region | |
| Metal |
