Ancient Roman Bronze Roman Military Onion-Head Fibula...

A remarkable Late Roman onion-head crossbow brooch (Zwiebelknopffibel), dating to the 4th century AD. This type of brooch was an important element of Late Roman military and official dress. It was used to fasten the military cloak (chlamys) and is particularly associated with soldiers, officers and imperial officials. The Fibula features three characteristic onion-shaped knobs and an elaborately decorated crossbar with four openwork volutes. Its predominantly glossy green-brown patina gives the piece an attractive appearance. What makes this particular example especially intriguing are five distinct notches along one side of the foot. These five marks appear deliberately placed and are confined to just one edge. Their original purpose remains unknown. Could they represent a personal marking made by the original owner? A soldier's individual record, a form of identification, or something entirely different? There is no definitive answer, and their meaning should not be overstated. Nevertheless, these unusual markings add a fascinating individual dimension to an object that may once have belonged to a Roman soldier or official some 1,600 years ago. The five notches are a particularly interesting feature that invites collectors to form their own interpretations. Object Details Culture: Late Roman Date: 4th century AD Type: Onion-head crossbow Fibula (Zwiebelknopffibel) Classification: Late Roman military and official dress accessory Material: Bronze alloy Length: 7.4 cm Width: 5.1 cm Height: 2.8 cm Weight: 39 g Decoration: Four openwork volutes and five unusual notches along one edge of the foot Patina: Predominantly glossy green-brown Condition Well preserved, with an attractive ancient patina. Provenance: Acquired from a private collection in Munich, Germany, in 2003. The fibula has been in my possession since 2003. The seller guarantees that this lot was legally acquired and that he is entitled to sell the object. Shipping: Insured DHL parcel shipping within the European Union. Shipping is only possible within the EU. Please take this into account before placing a bid.

Estimate:£166.7

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