Dell’antica Roma, Repubblica Argento Fibula

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Very rare type solid silver Roman-Hellenistic fibula which consists of a straight solid silver bar with 3 protruding knobs, the head slightly curved.

-> Fibulae were essential dress fasteners throughout the Greco-Roman world, used to secure garments such as cloaks and tunics. Silver examples were less common than bronze and reflect a more elegant and prestigious form of personal adornment.

± 65 x 20,3 mm

Good and solid condition. Appealing patina. Complete with pin (rigid) and catchplate. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. See images.

Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format).

-> Fibulae were among the most important accessories in Roman dress, combining practical function with decorative value. They were used by men and women alike, and their forms varied widely according to date, region, and fashion. While many were made in bronze, silver examples held a more special place and were often chosen for their more refined appearance and higher status.

Roman brooches could indicate personal taste, regional identity, and sometimes even social standing. Knobbed and moulded bow forms such as this show the Roman preference for structured, balanced ornament applied to useful everyday objects. Pieces like this demonstrate how even ordinary clothing fasteners could be transformed into elegant items of wearable metalwork.


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.