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LOT 0838
Roman Bronze Horse Head Whorl Brooch
3RD-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1 3/4 in. (16.7 grams, 45 mm).
Swastika-shaped fibula with horse-head decoration, each head with punched ring-and-dot eye, a similar motif to the centre. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired before 2000.
From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK.
Cf. Petcu, R., ‘Swastika-shaped fibulae with horse-head decorations (Almgren 232) from the Roman period in Dobrudja (Moesia Inferior)’ in Studia Antiqua et Archaeologica, 25(1); pp.113–122, fig.4.
FootnotesIn the 3rd century A.D., several examples of fibulae in the shape of four horses’ heads forming a swastika (type Almgren 232) seem to be related to the creation of the Illyrian cavalry corps in Roman army. Many examples of these military fibulae were found in ancient Roman Dacia (Romania), in Roman Illyricum and Moesia.
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:
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Roman Bronze Head of a Goddess
1st century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £715
Hollow-formed with neatly dressed hair in a chignon, small facial features and exaggerated eyes; mounted on a custom-made stand. 415 grams total, 94 mm including stand
From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
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