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 Legionary bronze crossbow fibula. Strongly arched bow and three prominent globular knobs, one at the top of the head and one at each end of the transverse crossbar. The bow and rectangular footplate are decorated with incised and notched detailing. -> Crossbow fibulae were worn as a symbol of rank in the Roman army and civil service and became part of the standard insignia of military personnel during the 3rd century AD. -> This brooch type was initially used by common soldiers and low ranking officers, but by the 4th century it had become a symbol of imperial administrators and powerful state bureaucrats. Finally by the 5th and 6th century the crossbow brooch was worn only by senators, consuls, or those with very close connections to the imperial court. Total length: ± 66,4 mm Width: ± 42,8 mm Condition: good solid condition, complete with restored pin (rigid) and catchplate. Attractive green patina. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format) for items with a hammer price of € 100 or more. -> Ancient Romans appreciated complex jewellery designs and used a wide range of materials. Fibulae were worn by both men and women. Fibulae are found in a large variety of styles, from strictly functional to very elaborate designs with colourful enamels or incorporating zoomorphic figures. The lower classed Romans used cheaper imitations of glass or various metal alloys to reduce the cost of manufacture while displaying their social status. Roman men typically wore one or more finger rings and fibulae. Jewellery was of particular importance to women in Roman society. They had the right to buy, sell or barter their jewellery independently as it was considered their own personal property. Jewellery for children not only showed the wealth and social status of the parents, it often included amulets to protect the children from illness and ward off evil forces.