Eastern Europe, Crimea, Ostrogoth culture, ca. 6th century CE. This is a superb example of a 68% to 73% silver dress buckle with a rectangular plate embossed with a repousse lion motif and knobbed rivets at each corner. The sheet was hammered flat and embossed with the stylized lion facing towards the buckle, the panel is folded over the loop and prong, and the back plate is riveted in place. The Ostrogoths buried their dead with elaborate grave goods and in formal dress. Ornaments like this one are usually found in the graves of elite Ostrogothic women, who were dressed in garments secured at the shoulders with a matching pair of these exquisite buckles. Size: 4.5" L x 0.25" W x 2.25" H (11.4 cm x 0.6 cm x 5.7 cm); 3.5" H (8.9 cm) on included custom stand; silver quality: 68% to 73%; weight: 48.6 grams

The Ostrogoths were the eastern tribe of the Goths (a Germanic people) who rose in power in the area north of the Black Sea, becoming a powerful force in Europe through the Migration and early medieval periods. Precious metals were often used in Gothic jewelry to denote the most elite individuals.

Provenance: ex-Royal Athena Galleries, New York, New York, USA; ex-S.A. collection, Germany, purchased on the Munich art market in 2008

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#171567

Minor indentations and several tiny tears to peripheries, otherwise excellent condition. Dark patina and toning throughout. Prong and loop articulate.