Silver Fibula: Romano-Celtic, circa 2nd Century AD
Battle Axe Brooch
A remarkable Romano-Celtic skeuomorphic silver brooch depicting two stylized and co-joined battle axe heads. The surface shows a nice even patina and the silver pin is intact. This is a very scarce design and silver fibula/brooches are generally much scarcer than bronze ones. Stylistically similar to the brooches pictured in Hattatt “Ancient Brooches” figure 216.
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.
(35 mm in Length – 1 3/8”)
Weight: 11.16 gms
