Italic Brons Fibula

AN EXCEPTIONAL AND MUSEUM-QUALITY BRONZE DOUBLE-SPIRAL FIBULA

AMONG THE FINEST EXAMPLES OF ITS TYPE TO APPEAR ON THE MARKET IN RECENT YEARS

Italic / Adriatic Region, Early Iron Age, ca. 8th–6th century BC

An extraordinary bronze double-spiral fibula, executed to an exceptionally high standard and representing the uppermost tier of craftsmanship within this early fibula tradition. The piece is formed from a single, continuous bronze rod, expertly hot-forged and meticulously wound into two perfectly balanced concentric spiral discs, connected by an elegantly modelled S-shaped central bridge.

This fibula stands far above the ordinary examples of the type. While double-spiral (spectacle) fibulae are known from the Early Iron Age, specimens of such precision, refinement, and preservation are extremely rare. The overall symmetry, proportional harmony, and technical execution clearly indicate the work of a highly skilled bronze smith, operating well beyond utilitarian production.

Spirals and Craftsmanship:
Despite its relatively compact size, each spiral displays an exceptionally high number of concentric windings. From the central core to the outer edge, approximately eighteen concentric turns can be counted on each disc. This is a remarkable and highly unusual feature, as most known examples, especially smaller ones, display significantly fewer coils.

The execution of such a high number of tightly controlled windings required:

-perfectly consistent wire thickness
-precise control of heat and tension
-exceptional technical confidence

Any minor miscalculation during the winding process would have resulted in distortion or breakage. The successful completion of approximately eighteen concentric coils therefore constitutes clear, objective evidence of superior craftsmanship and places this fibula among the finest known examples of its class.

Central Bridge – Technical and Academic Assessment:
The spirals are connected by a gracefully flowing S-shaped central bridge, which exhibits a deliberate thickening at its point of maximum curvature. This feature is the result of intentional localized hammering and work-hardening during manufacture and is entirely original.

The surface patina across this thickened area is fully continuous and homogeneous, with no disruption, seams, or metallurgical inconsistencies. There is no evidence of breakage, soldering, repair, or restoration. The fibula is preserved exactly as forged in antiquity.

Such reinforced central bridges are well-attested on high-quality Early Iron Age fibulae, serving both a functional purpose, strengthening the area of greatest mechanical stress and an aesthetic one, subtly emphasizing balance and visual rhythm. This feature is rarely present on lower-quality or mass-produced examples.

Patina:
The entire surface is covered with a superb, stable azur-green to pistachio-green patina, evenly developed across the spirals, central bridge, and edges. The patina is natural, undisturbed, and well-adhered, greatly enhancing both the visual appeal and the scholarly integrity of the object.

Condition:
-Exceptional, museum-quality condition:
-completely intact
-no breaks, cracks, or repairs
-no deformation
-spirals fully preserved with all coils intact
-original forged structure uncompromised

Fibulae of this type are most often encountered fragmentary, flattened, or heavily corroded. Examples preserved in this state, with such refinement and structural integrity, are exceptionally rare.

Typology, Rarity, and Social Context:
Double-spiral fibulae belong to the earliest tradition of metal dress fasteners in prehistoric Europe and are generally associated with the Italic and Adriatic cultural sphere. While the type itself is known, fibulae of this calibre—characterized by an unusually high number of spiral windings, refined proportions, and flawless execution—are scarce.

From an academic perspective, such objects are widely understood as prestige items, likely worn by individuals of elevated social status or elite standing. The investment of time, skill, and material evident in this fibula goes far beyond practical necessity and reflects social display, identity, and rank within Early Iron Age communities.

Specifications:
-Material: Bronze
-Date: ca. 8th–6th century BC
-Culture: Italic / Adriatic, Early Iron Age
-Weight: approx. 49 grams
-Width: 10,4 cm
-Spirals: approx. 18 concentric windings per disc
-Condition: Exceptional; museum quality

Provenance:
From the private collection of G. Giuseppe Ancient Coins and Art, acquired on the European art market.

Conclusion:
A superb and exceptionally rare Early Iron Age fibula, distinguished by its extraordinary craftsmanship, unusually high number of concentric spiral windings, original structural features, and magnificent patina. Among the finest examples of its type to appear on the market in recent years, and a piece of unmistakable museum-level importance.

Only shipment within the EU, fully insured!