Bronze Fibula: Ancient Roman, circa 2nd – 3rd Century AD
Bird Brooch - Peacock
A scarce Ancient Roman bronze zoomorphic brooch depicting a Peacock with its tail spread in display. The peacock was an attribute of the Roman Goddess Juno, and evolved into an early Christian symbol for immortality. The three-dimensional form is very sculptured and streamlined. The tail feathers are delineated by a series of engraved dots. It has a fine smooth patina and the pin is intact, though frozen.
Two similar, though less elaborate, peacock brooches are pictured in Hattatt “Ancient Brooches,” figures 1415 & 1636.
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.
(35 mm in Length – 1 3/8”)
