Loading, please wait...
LOT 0749
Roman Horse Head Whorl Brooch
3RD-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1 3/4 in. (16.7 grams, 45 mm).
A bronze 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:
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.
-
Roman Decorated Bracelet
Circa 1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
A copper-alloy penannular bracelet with rounded terminals, decorated with incised and pierced geometric motifs comprising alternating panels of five piercings with dotted roundels to each, vertical bands creating rectangular panels, populated with pricked dot arches and waves. 23.9 grams, 59 mm
Acquired since the 1970s. Ex property of an Austrian private collector. -
Roman and Later Artefact Group
2nd century A.D. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £33
A mixed group comprising: a bone dolphin with slot to the raised; the tip of a bronze hair-pin; and two later glass beads. 11.56 grams total, 12-38 mm
Acquired in the late 1990s-2000. Property of an East London gentleman. -
Roman Bone Spoon
1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £78
A bone spoon with a shallow piriform bowl and tapering round-section stem, two concentric V-shaped channels to the bowl reverse; tip of stem lost in antiquity. 5.96 grams, 10.6 cm
Acquired 1969-1999. London collection of the late Mr S.M., thence by descent.
