Roman to Byzantine, late Imperial period, ca. 280 to mid 6th century CE. A trio of beautiful copper-silver alloy "crossbow" fibulae (brooches) used to fasten the cloaks of Roman soldiers and citizens. Each is cruciform, two with round bosses on the terminals (the third has squared off terminals), and a flat tailpiece. Each is decorated with incised lines and/or dots, likely made using an awl. A thick silver pin is present on the back of each for fastening. Brooches of this style were in vogue in the late Roman Empire, especially amongst elites; they are similar to those found in contemporary Baltic tribes during the early Migration period and probably represent a mixing of cultures during this volatile time period. Some of the known examples have overt Christian symbols, as the gold one at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/466286) with its openwork cross on the tailpiece. Size of largest: 0.95" L x 1.5" W x 2.35" H (2.4 cm x 3.8 cm x 6 cm); 3" H (7.6 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-collection of Nicholas Kronwall, Arizona, USA; acquired from Greg Manning Galleries, New Jersey, USA, 1996

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#138208

Attractive surface patina with very slight scratching, mainly on the tailpiece. Pin is not frozen in place, but is delicate and should not be moved. Overall very nice condition.