Roman Empire, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A wonderful, bronze "crossbow" fibula or brooch, featuring a cruciform profile, with three round bulbs on the terminals at top and sides, and a flat tailpiece that expands toward the end. One side of the tailpiece has been adorned with 2 set of 4 relief, concentric circle motifs: 1 at the top and the other near the end. The midsection of the ancient embellishment arches upward, while a pin and its setting are displayed on the verso. Used to fasten a cloak of a Roman soldier and citizen, these were widely worn throughout the Roman world. Circular designs, like those on the tailpiece, are common adornments on a variety of Roman items, especially prevalent in Roman settlements in Britain, and were said to be powerful wards against the evil eye. Size: 3.1" L x 1.9" W (7.9 cm x 4.8 cm); 4.4" H (11.2 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private Rhode Island, USA collection, acquired 1980s - 1990s

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#169736

Pin is stuck impeding wearability. Expected abrasions and slight warping to body. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice patina and encrustations.