Artwork Page for Crossbow Fibula

Details / Information for Crossbow Fibula

Crossbow Fibula

c. 350–400

Gallo-Roman or Romano-British, Migration period, 4th century

Medium
bronze, gilt-bronze, silver, and niello
Measurements
Overall: 8.6 x 7 cm (3 3/8 x 2 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1930.225
Public Domain
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Location
106A Migration Period & Coptic
Print

Description

A fibula was a garment clasp that functioned somewhat like a modern safety pin. Since buttons were not used in antiquity, fibulae were used to keep a cloak closed. They were worn by both men and women, commonly on the right shoulder, and produced in various sizes and shapes. Because they were highly visible accessories, they often received decorative gilding, inlay decoration, or "onion"- shaped domes. Crossbow fibulae were introduced by the Romans and are named for their resemblance to the weapon. Decorative and technical features of this group suggest they may have been made in Roman-occupied Britain.

Crossbow Fibula

c. 350–400

Gallo-Roman or Romano-British, Migration period, 4th century

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