Western Europe, France / Gaul, Merovingian Dynasty, Migration Period, ca. 5th to 6th century CE. This is an amazing pair of copper alloy buckles both inlaid with colorful glass. Both are similarly formed, with an articulating ring prong, and a panel with a separate backing for the terminal tip of the belt strap to attach to via riveting holes pierced through the panels. A raised bezel is welded to the frontside of both. The circular piece is inlaid with ovoid glass in white, orange, and green hues and the other buckle has orange, red, and pale green glass. The craftsmanship on both is exquisite, and well preserved, the glass developing areas of iridescence, and the copper has a lovely green patina. At the time of the fall of the Roman Empire, other cultures began to evolve, grow, and eventually prosper. Although called the Dark Ages, there were still pockets throughout Europe where culture, art, and prosperity still thrived. Size of largest: 2.8" L x 1.125" W (7.1 cm x 2.9 cm)

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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Both are excellent. Light mineral and earthen encrustations. Iridescence to the glass. Surface wear and abrasions as expected with age.