Roman - Highly Decorated Gilded Crossbow Brooch > Lot No. 712

Description:
4th century AD. A late, gilded copper-alloy and niello inlaid Roman crossbow brooch of evolved form; its ridged cross-bar decorated with collared onion-shaped finials; a third onion-shaped feature above the junction with the bow; the bow itself once decorated with inlaid niello; below a narrow collar, a rectangular footplate with integral catchplate; the upper surface of the footplate decorated with facets, horizontal channels and further inlaid niello.

Measurements:
46 grams, 67 mm.

Condition:
Very fine, complete with pin and much of the original gilding.

References:
Cf. Hattatt, R. Ancient and Romano-British Brooches , Oxford, 1982, p.122-3 item 104.

Provenance:
Ex Lord McAlpine collection.

Estimate: £120 - 180 (EUR 150 - 220; USD 190 - 280)

Auction date: Thursday 9th September 2010 at The Swedenborg Hall 20-21 Bloomsbury Way
London WC1A 2TH

Sold for: £100