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Details
LOT 0305
Ostrogothic Silver-Gilt Radiate-Headed Brooch
LATE 5TH CENTURY A.D.
4 3/8 in. (28 grams, 11 cm).
Comprising a D-shaped headplate with running-scroll motif and five radiating balustered knops, the median one with an applied cell and inset garnet cabochon; short bow with median rib and tiered junction to the lozengiform footplate with running scroll motifs and cabochon garnets at the angles; lateral pierced triangular panels with cabochon garnets below and a beast-head finial; pin-lugs, spring, pin and catch to the reverse.
Provenance
Acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s.
From the private collection of Alan Harrison, circa 2007.
Literature
Cf. Menghin, W., The Merovingian Period. Europe Without Borders, Berlin, 2007, items VIII.6.2, VIII.6.3.
Footnotes
The pierced triangular element above the finial was probably intended to represent two animals with heads bent down, the garnet cabochons forming the eyes; this is more clearly shown on the example from Ravenna (VIII.6.2).
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