Bronze Fibula: Roman - Grazing Horse Brooch
Circa 1st – 3rd Century AD
A substantial Roman bronze zoomorphic brooch depicting a grazing horse. The surface shows a nice patina and may have originally been silvered. The pin is present, though fused and the tip of the catchplate is missing. Uncommon form, not in Hattatt “Ancient Treasures” although #1185 and #1186 are standing horses of similar form and period.
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”)
