Roman Gilt Bronze Crossbow Brooch

CIRCA MID 4TH-EARLY 5TH CENTURY A.D.

2 7/8 in. (56 grams, 73 mm).

Three onion-knops and pierced decoration to the headplate, facetted bow and footplate with semi-circular cross-section, conjoined peltate border and geometric motifs to the centre, bow with geometric motifs and possibly facing human head; complete with pin and catchplate to reverse.

Provenance

Acquired 1990s-early 2000s.
East Anglian private collection.

Literature

Cf. The Metropolitan Museum, New York, accession number 1999.42, for a similar example; PAS DUR-57B5D5, in Leahy, K. and Lewis, M., Finds Identified II, London, 2020, p.30.

Footnotes

During the Late Roman period, these brooches were worn as marks of rank both by officers of militia armata and non armata, i.e. military and civilian officers.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine 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:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

Live Bidding

LOT 0632