Roman Silver and Iron Decorated Crossbow Fibula

Object Description

A Roman silver and iron crossbow fibula featuring a thick arched bow leading to a rectangular footplate. At the top of the fibula is a horizontal polygonal crossbar, finished on either side with two rounded, collared terminals, made from iron. The very top of the bow displays a similar collared terminal, this time, made out of silver. The thick bow is beautifully decorated with vertical bands of incised patterns: a repeating wave motif runs down the sides of the curved bow, while the middle is decorated with a sequence of lozenges. Just above the footplate, a wire has been wrapped around the bow, creating a spiral effect. The elongated footplate accommodates a D-shaped catch plate, with its outer face decorated with linear designs.

Date: Circa 3rd-4th century AD

Object History

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

Object Condition

Fine Condition. Tarnishing and encrustations to the surface. Signs of wear as consistent with its age, such as minor scratches, chipping, and surface pitting. The crossbar is slightly cracked to one side. The pin and catchplate are intact and partially moveable.

Object Details