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. Roman silver bow fibula, rare small size. Size: ± 25,2 x 7,8 mm Condition: good solid condition. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. See images. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format). -> Ancient Romans appreciated complex jewellery designs and used a wide range of materials. Semi-precious stones like lapis lazuli, emeralds, jasper and carnelian were very popular. They were imported from various parts of the Roman Empire or via the trade routes which stretched from the Baltic area, the Persian Gulf, the Silk Road to the Far East. Fibulae were worn by both men and women, often richly decorated with (semi-)precious gemstones and metals. Fibulae are found in a large variety of styles, from strictly functional to very elaborate designs with gemstones, colourful enamels or incorporating zoomorphic figures. The lower classed Romans used imitations of glass or various metal alloys to reduce the cost of manufacture while displaying their social status. Material: 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.