Loading, please wait...
LOT 0335
Dark Age Silver Boar Bow Brooch
5TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.
2 1/2 in. (28 grams, 65 mm).
Comprising a circular headplate with pointillé tendril ornament, and three radiating lugs, each with a flared collar below; deep D-section bow with boar-head modelling including open mouth and tusks, bristles and pricked ears; parallel-sided chamfered edges, recurved finial with dog-head detailing and teardrop dangle in the mouth; spring and pin to the reverse.
Provenancewith Artemis Gallery, Münich, before 1998.
Acquired by the present owner from the above in 2001.
Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12226-222179.
See Harhoiu, R., Der Schatzfund von Simleul Silvaniei und die Schlacht von Nedao, in Banatica, Bd. 23, (2013), pp. 111-142, for similar; see also D'Amato, R., Salimbeti, A., Post-Roman Kingdoms, 'Dark Ages' Gaul and Britain, AD 450-800, Oxford, 2023, p.53.
FootnotesAs the boar's mouth is modelled open, it is likely that it also had a dangle similar to that of the dog's head. The artistic effect of the brooch is to symbolise the chase, with the boar fleeing and the hound in close pursuit behind. This kind of fibula was used by the Romano-British people of Britannia, as attested by specimens found in Britain (BM inventory no.PRB 1954.12-6.1).
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Merovingian Bronze Ring with Facing Figure
6th-7th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £111
Comprising a round-section hoop with keeled shoulders, with pointillé decoration; a lentoid bezel with pointillé border and central facing figure. 6.34 grams, 25.80 mm overall, 20.46 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P 1/2, USA 7 3/4, Europe 16.86, Japan 16)
Acquired on the UK and EU art market before 2000. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
The image is reminiscent of Celtic (Gaulish) divine iconography, and these kinds of rings were in fact found in Gallo-Roman graves, belonging to the Gallo-Roman population under Carolingian rule. -
Migration Period Silver-Gilt Stud with Cabochon
6th-8th century A.D.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £50
Square in plan with stepped cell and inset cabochon garnet; mounting spike to reverse. 6.03 grams, 19 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Migration Period Silver Buckle and Mount Collection
6th-8th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
Including kidney-shaped and other types, with openwork stiffener plate, strap end and other items. 26.34 grams total, 16-30 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
