Roman Bronze Crossbow Brooch

4TH CENTURY A.D.

2 in. (30.18 grams, 51 mm).

With onion-shaped knops to the crossbar and pierced lug to centre, deep bow, trapezoidal foot with notched edges; integral catch; hinged pin to reverse; Keller Type 4. [No Reserve]

Provenance

Ex German art market, 2000s.
Acquired from an EU collector living in London.
From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Literature

Cf. Mackreth, D.F., Brooches in Late Iron Age and Roman Britain, Oxford, 2011, vol.2, pl.140, item 12576.

Footnotes

The pierced lug at the top of the bow must have been a later addition in antiquity after the loss of the original knop.

CONDITION

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LOT 0744