Heading : Roman, Silvered, Axe (Fasces) Fibula Brooch with Pin, 2nd Century AD

Material: Silvered metal

Period: Ancient Roman

Date: 2nd century

Origin: Europe

Condition: VF, patches of silvering worn but mostly intact, pin also present, far greater detail than some examples.

Description: A superbly detailed silvered plate brooch, stylised as a fasces or ceremonial axe with bundle of rods, with notched T-shaped blade, loop to the rear, ribbed handle, hinged pin and catch to reverse.

Size and Weight: 57mm x 37mm, 20g

References: Hattatt's, Ancient Brooches, cf. page 358. 

Features and Provenance:

The fasces, and axe surrounded by wooden rods held together with leather thongs, was a ceremonial symbol of authority carried by Roman's of high office, particularly magistrates. The fibula may therefore have been used as a badge of authority and not just as a clothes fastening. Buttons were still to be invented and cloaks, robes and ladies clothing were held together with fibulae made from copper, silver and sometime gold. They were symbols of status and allowed the wearer to show off their wealth, being often enamelled or bejewelled. 

Condition Summary. This varies with the age of the artefact and there are grades between

Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear, all parts of pattern etc present, visible and clear

Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief, all parts of pattern etc present, but may be worn

Fine (F). Wear on the artefact and parts of item and pattern etc may be missing or not visible