Roman Silver Tetrastyle Temple Brooch - c. 2nd-Early 3rd Cent AD

$0.00

Silver Fibula: Roman - Tetrastyle Temple Brooch, circa 2nd – early 3rd Century AD

A remarkable Roman skeuomorphic silver brooch depicting a four column (Tetrastyle) Temple. The openwork brooch features a domed capital with decorative circular architectural ornament at the apex. Four columns frame the archway, and each pair has a separate architrave on which the capital rests. The surface shows a nice toned patina and the hinged pin is intact. Unlike on Roman coins, Gods are very rarely depicted on Roman brooches, and temples are also uncommon. 

For a similar example in bronze see Hattatt “Ancient Brooches” #1625a.

The fibula was in widespread use throughout the ancient world. The Roman conquests spread the use of the fibula, which became the basis for more complicated brooches. In the severe climate of northern Europe, it routinely functioned as a fastening for a heavy cloak or tunic. The safety-pin type of fibula continued to be used up into the Middle Ages.

(33 x 20 mm – 1 1/4 x 3/4”)

  • Inventory# PA-3497
Sold Out