Ancient Roman

Bronze belt fitting with stylized zoomorphic decoration – Late Antiquity Culture: Late Roman or early medieval, provisional attribution. Proposed dating: 4th–7th centuries CE. Material: Cast bronze. Dimensions: 17 × 35 × 17 mm. An interesting bronze ornamental fitting, characterized by its distinctive geometric design, pronounced reliefs, and a frontal decoration of possible zoomorphic interpretation. The piece features an elongated, symmetric body, with a top terminus provided with an attachment element and a triangular lower end that ends in a point. The obverse is ornamented with two deeply recessed circular motifs, surrounded by curvilinear elements and lateral projections that, together, evoke a schematic animal face. The composition stands out for its expressiveness and for the contrast between smooth surfaces and pronounced reliefs. On the reverse it preserves two solid fixation rivets, probably intended to secure the piece to a leather strap. Its configuration suggests a function related to belt fittings or elements of personal equipment. It presents an attractive dark patina, in olive-green and blackish-brown tones, with earthy deposits that accentuate its archaeological character. Conservation status: Apparent good structural integrity, with recognizable frontal decoration, upper attachment element, and both rear rivets preserved. Surface wear and concretions in line with its archaeological state. A singular piece of ancient metalwork, especially attractive for its possible zoomorphic decoration, its careful symmetry, and its interesting fixing system.

Estimate:£167.51

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