Greek Geometric Period Bow Fibula

8TH-7TH CENTURY B.C.

3 3/4 in. (42 grams, 95 mm).

Central bulb to the keeled bow, integral pin and large catch-plate. [No Reserve]

Provenance

From the family collection of a Surrey gentleman since before 1960.

Literature

Cf. Moon-Ja, K., ‘A study on Ancient Fibulae’ in IJCC, vol.8, no.2, 2005, pp.71-84, fig.3, for the type.

Footnotes

The function of the catch-plate fibulae was utilitarian and decorative, they were used for woollen clothing (Herodotus V, 87) and they have been found in houses, tombs and as votive offerings in sanctuaries. This typology was introduced in South Italy by the Greeks, and was widespread in the Magna Graecia. Like all female fibulae, it functioned as a clothing fastener, usually worn as a pair on each shoulder.

CONDITION

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LOT 0513