Merovingian Cicada Brooch

A silver bow brooch with semi-circular headplate, decorative knop to apex, slender arched bow, sub-rectangular footplate with knop finial and punched annulets; spring, pin and catchplate to reverse. 8.58 grams, 51 mm



Acquired before 2000. From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK.

The triple-bossed fibula developed from the fibulae of the southern east-European Germanic tribes, during the migration in the 5th century. This type can be found in modern territories from Hungary to France and occasionally even in England, but in general it remains rare. The type usually carries button-shaped decorations at the end of the semi-circular bow plate.

A heavy silver belt buckle, the bow and tongue decorated with raised nodules, rectangular plate with beaded edges, pierced through the corners, modern plate for attachment. 101 grams, 87 mm

Fine condition.

Acquired mid 1980s to early 1990s. Private family collection formed in London.

The construction of the buckle loop and tongue could suggest that this object originates from the Heruli culture, when compared to finds like those from the Ulów graves. Another possibility is that the buckle belongs to Alemannic or Frankish culture. The rectangular buckle plate seems to be an addition from a different buckle of Gothic type, but the assemblage could have been done already in antiquity.

A carved bone panel or amulet, possibly a pectoral fragment, carved with a scene composed of a central mounted horseman advancing left with spear raised and solar symbol behind his head, flanked by his forces depicted on the left as two rows of heads facing right, and on the right as two rows of heads facing left; pierced for attachment or suspension; repaired. 53 grams, 16.5 cm

Fine condition, small losses to lower edge and one finial; repaired.

Previously in the Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister. From a Cambridge collection. Property of a North London gentleman.

The scene represents a triumphant military commander or an emperor on horseback surrounded by his troops. It may have formed part of the parade attire of a junior officer.