Roman Bronze Crossbow Fibula

Object Description

A Roman bronze crossbow fibula featuring a thick arched bow leading to a rectangular footplate. At the top, the crossbar is decorated with vertical ribs on the sides and three spherical, collared terminals that taper to a slight point, two on either side and one to the top. The curved bow is adorned with a vertical band of intricate geometric engraving. The foot of the brooch disguises a D-shaped catch plate, with its outer face decorated with groups of concentric circles and a thin vertical band of hatched engravings. A rectangular protrusion with a rounded profile extends from the lower register of the footplate. The reverse of the brooch displays a fully intact pin.

Date: Circa 1st – 3rd Century AD

Object History

From an important European private collection, 1980s-2000s.

Object Condition

Fine condition. Signs of wear as consistent with age, such as missing points on the terminals, surface pitting, scratches, and minor chips. Earthly encrustations and a beautiful dark patina to the surface. The pin and catch plate are complete and intact, but fixed in place.

Object Details