Roman, Late Period, ca. 4th to 5th century CE. A hollow gold crossbow brooch (96.54% gold, equivalent to 23K+) with hexagonal-section arms, two onion-shaped knobs to the arms and a third above the bow, each with a beaded wire collar; scrolled openwork plaque to the upper face of the arms, the bow triangular in section with collar to the lower edge; the footplate with openwork scrolls to each edge, chamfered panels beneath; curved catchplate to the reverse; the bow with niello inscription to two faces ' SEMPER FIDELIS' (meaning ever faithful). Size: 2.375" H (6 cm); 3.25" H (8.3 cm) on included custom stand. Weight: 20.5 grams. Gold quality: 96.54% gold, equivalent to 23K+

The crossbow fibula form was quite popular in the ancient world. Brooches of this style were in vogue during the late Roman Empire, especially amongst elites; found throughout the Roman Empire - from Britain to Syria, they are are similar to those also from contemporaneous Baltic tribes during the early Migration period and probably represent a blending of cultures during this volatile time period. The form traditionally combines a high-arching, semi-circular bow with a crossbar and a slotted leg to receive the pointed end of a hinged pin. The crossbars usually present knobby ends as we see on this example.

Cf. Hattatt, R. Iron Age and Roman Brooches, Oxford, 1985, item 505.

This piece is accompanied by a copy of Art Loss Register certificate no. S00119492.

Provenance: private Connecticut, USA collection; ex-property of a gentleman; acquired in the late 1960s - early 1970s. Timeline Auctions, London, 1 December 2015, lot 227. Art Loss Register certificate no. S00119492.

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#149797

Missing the pin. Minor indentations to the upper onion-shaped knob. Otherwise excellent.