An elaborate Roman enameled bronze zoomorphic brooch, of equal-ended form, depicting a turtle. The round turtle ''shell'' has compartments of yellow and blue enamel. The surface shows a nice green patina and remarkably, the pin is totally intact. (14 x 38 mm – 9/16 x 1 1/2'')
Ancient Roman - circa 2nd century AD
Of Continental origin – for similar zoomorphic equal-ended brooches found in Britain and France see Hattatt ''Ancient Brooches,'' figure 211.
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.
