A Roman bronze crossbow fibula brooch which is much larger than the usual size. The fibula has typical onion shaped terminals, the bow is plain, but the foot is finely decorated with incised scrolls to the centre which mirror the cast scrolls to the edges. Complete with original pin.
 
Circa 4th century AD.
 
Condition: Very Fine: complete and intact with good bronze, with even, light green patination.
Length 10.8 cms (4.25 ins).
 
For similar examples of the type see 502-505; Iron-age and Other Brooches; Richard Hattatt.
 
Provenance: Acquired from JS Fine Art, item no.3345. Property of a Shropshire private collector.
 
The fibula was an ancient brooch. Their function was not only decorative, but they also originally served a practical function, to fasten clothing such as cloaks.