Ancient Roman, Empire Bronze Set of six Roman plate brooches in bronze – 2nd–3rd centuries AD. - 33 mm

Lot of six Roman plate brooches made of bronze alloy – 2nd–3rd centuries AD.

Interesting set of six Roman plate brooches crafted in a copper/bronze alloy, belonging to different geometric variants used as fastening and decorative elements of clothing during the Roman Empire.

Predominant are the rhomboid and diamond shapes, with ends finished in small globular buttons and central decoration through circular ridges, concentric rings and stepped geometric fields. One piece features an elegant lanceolate profile with lateral notches and a marked longitudinal rib.

Especially notable are the two rhomboidal brooches of greater development, provided with a umbo or central disc, as well as the specimens with concentric square panels. In several pieces remains of old reddish decoration are observed, possibly corresponding to enamel or inlay material.

The reverses preserve to varying degrees the original needle, hinge, and receiving plate systems, allowing clear recognition of their function as brooches. This type of diamond-shaped plate brooches, frequently decorated with enamels and small peripheral finishes, is well documented during the 2nd century AD, with variants that continue into the early 3rd century. Archaeological parallels precisely describe rhomboidal examples with knobs at the vertices, enameled fields, and concentric central decoration.

Chronology: Roman Empire, primarily 2nd century AD, possibly until the early 3rd century AD.
Material: copper/bronze alloy; possible enamel remains.
Number of pieces: 6.
Measurements: from approximately 26 × 15 mm (smallest) to 33 × 25 mm (largest).
State: archaeological conservation, with patina and surface deposits, minor wear and losses typical of antiquity; later mechanisms preserved wholly or partially depending on the piece.

Particularly attractive set for bringing together six variants of Roman plate brooches, conserved as a group and representative of provincial minor goldsmithing and personal adornment of the High Empire.