Roman Bronze Galley Brooch c2nd Century

Description

Material: Bronze (copper alloy)

Period: Roman imperial

Date: 2nd century AD

Origin: Rome or Roman province

Condition: VF, good detail and deep green patina, sadly pin is missing as is often the case.

Description: A plate brooch or fibula in the shape of a galley, the reverse has a catch-plate but the pin is missing. There are zoomorphic features with a ram at the figurehead and possibly an eagle at the stern. Rarely seen.

Size and Weight: 58mm x 30mm, 15g

Features and Provenance: Ex Apollo Art sale, from a London gallery and previously a UK collection.

The galley or ship depicted on this rare brooch is either a Trireme or Bireme and depends on the number of levels of oars it had. Both were ancient ship types with both the Greeks and Phoenicians having using them. They were fast and manoeuvrable but took a lot of upkeep as they became waterlogged if at sea for too long. To prevent this, the light wooden framed ships were pulled onto the beach at night by at least 140 men; this would leave them open to attack at night, but it seemed to be worth it, as a galley could last for as long as 25 years if looked after.

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