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Details
LOT 1001
Roman Silver Crossbow Brooch
3RD CENTURY A.D.
2 in. (15.8 grams, 50 mm).
Comprising a hexagonal-section crossbar with collars and bulb finials, slot for a hinged pin, trapezoid-section bow, rectangular foot with incised geometric ornament, catch to the reverse; socket at top of bow to accept a separate knop. [No Reserve]
Provenance
Acquired on the UK art market before 2000.
Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.
Literature
Cf. Hattatt, R., Brooches of Antiquity, Oxford, 1987, item 1260, for type.
Footnotes
This is a very early form of crossbow brooch, showing very clearly its origin in the mid-Roman P-shaped bow brooch.
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AUCTIONS:
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