Bronze Fibula: Romano-Celtic - Horse Brooch
Circa 1st - 2nd Century AD
A fine Romano-Celtic bronze zoomorphic brooch depicting a stylized three-dimensional standing horse with arched neck. Five “magic eye” designs enhance the body. The spring-loaded pin is intact. It was crafted during the period when Roman and Celtic cultures were interacting in Britain and the area of Pannonia and Moesia (present day Hungary/Balkans/Bulgaria). This is a rare form – For other horse brooches, see Hattatt “Ancient Brooches,” page 359.
Excellent condition - the surface shows a nice green patina and the and the pin and catch plate are intact.
The fibula was in widespread use throughout the ancient world, originally functioning as a fastening for a heavy cloak or tunic. The Roman conquests spread the use of the fibula, which became the basis for more complicated brooches that served both as functional and decorative elements. The “safety-pin” type of fibula/brooch continued to be used up into the Middle Ages.
(25 x 42 mm – 1 x 1 5/8”)
