Celtic Silver Spiral Fibula

Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. A very rare silver Celtic fibula, fashioned from a single continuous length of silver wire, formed into a curved bow with a decorative chain of interlinked figure-eight loops with a coiled spring to one end. The catchplate on the reverse is neatly formed, complete with pin. Total length: ± 38,8mm Condition: very fine, complete and solid condition. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format). -> Brooches of this type were both functional dress fasteners and decorative personal ornaments, demonstrating the technical mastery and aesthetic refinement of Celtic metalworkers. -> The spiral is one of the oldest symbols of human spirituality. Spiral motifs appear in ancient carvings and painted rock art dating back thousands of years The infinite, twisting spiral was a favourite of the ancient Greeks and Celts and has continued to influence artists, thinkers and designers for millennia. It is thought to represent growth, expansion, cosmic energy and a symbol of the sun, and it has been suggested to be linked to birth or rebirth. Spirals have been found in burial sites, in vases, in jewellery, clothing, weapons and buildings. Throughout history, the spiral has been a highly valued design in Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and Viking art, and continues to be appreciated to this day. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been carefully examined for its material and surface characteristics. Laboratory analysis (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting, and destructive testing is avoided as it causes permanent damage to archaeological material. Before modern hallmarking, gold and silver alloys varied depending on local resources, recycling practices and economic conditions.

Estimate:£235.06

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