Bronze Fibula: Roman - “Two Horses” Brooch
Circa 2nd – 3rd Century AD
A very fine Roman bronze zoomorphic brooch depicting two horses. The figures are rendered sculpturally in three dimensions with the hinge and catchplate forming the legs. The surface shows an attractive dark green patina. The pin is totally intact. Rare form, not in Hattatt “Ancient Brooches,” although page 309 shows several individual standing horses of the same period.
The fibula was in widespread use throughout the ancient world. 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/brooch continued to be used into the Middle Ages, serving both as functional and decorative elements.
(17 x 39 mm – 11/16 x 1 9/16 ”)
