Merovingian Bronze with zooform pierced decoration and stylized finishes – - 43 mm
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€ 1
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Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 280 - € 350
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Merovingian bronze ornamental fitting from the 6th–7th century AD, with openwork zoomorphic decoration and stylised terminals.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Merovingian bronze brooch with openwork zooform decoration and stylized terminals – 6th–7th centuries CE.
Culture: Merovingian
Proposed dating: Imperial period, 6th–7th centuries CE.
Material: Cast bronze.
An interesting and singular bronze ornamental appliqué, with an elegant symmetric composition and carefully crafted geometric decoration, possibly belonging to an ancient bridle or harness fittings from the Merovingian era.
The piece presents a body with architectural outline, enriched by relief moldings, two circular perforations arranged symmetrically, and a central motif of concentric circles framed by angular lines.
Its upper part is topped by an elaborate composition of triangular elements and divergent moldings, while the lower end features three projections, with the two side ones gracefully curved outward.
A special highlight is the contrast between the dark bronze background and the reliefs in a earthy golden hue, which accentuates the richness of the ornamentation and gives it a notable aesthetic presence.
State of conservation: Good visual and apparent structural integrity. Preserves its frontal decoration, both perforations and the posterior ring. Shows surface wear and earthy deposits.
An attractive example of ancient metalworking ornamentation, especially interesting for the complexity of its geometric design, the harmony of its composition, and its unique mounting system.
Merovingian bronze brooch with openwork zooform decoration and stylized terminals – 6th–7th centuries CE.
Culture: Merovingian
Proposed dating: Imperial period, 6th–7th centuries CE.
Material: Cast bronze.
An interesting and singular bronze ornamental appliqué, with an elegant symmetric composition and carefully crafted geometric decoration, possibly belonging to an ancient bridle or harness fittings from the Merovingian era.
The piece presents a body with architectural outline, enriched by relief moldings, two circular perforations arranged symmetrically, and a central motif of concentric circles framed by angular lines.
Its upper part is topped by an elaborate composition of triangular elements and divergent moldings, while the lower end features three projections, with the two side ones gracefully curved outward.
A special highlight is the contrast between the dark bronze background and the reliefs in a earthy golden hue, which accentuates the richness of the ornamentation and gives it a notable aesthetic presence.
State of conservation: Good visual and apparent structural integrity. Preserves its frontal decoration, both perforations and the posterior ring. Shows surface wear and earthy deposits.
An attractive example of ancient metalworking ornamentation, especially interesting for the complexity of its geometric design, the harmony of its composition, and its unique mounting system.
Details
Culture
Merovingian
Century/timeframe
6th-7th century AD
Name of object
with zooform pierced decoration and stylized finishes –
Acquired from
Gallery / Antique dealer
Year acquired
1960
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Spain
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Gallery / Antique dealer
Height
43 mm
Previous owner - year acquired
1950
Width
50 mm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Spain
Depth
3 mm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
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The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
