Silver-Gilt Roman Knee Brooch > Lot No. 678

Description:
2nd-3rd century AD. An unusual form of evolved Roman knee brooch; the crossbar circular in section, slotted to accept the pin; the headplate rectangular, rising with concave profile to the main body; the bow and integral footplate pentagonal in section; an onion-shaped knop below the footplate; the rectangular catchplate separated from the footplate; the iron pin lost in antiquity as usual.

Measurements:
20.83 grams, 45 mm.

Condition:
Very fine with some of the original gilding.

References:
The long catchplate and sharp turn in the bow is derived from the Roman knee brooch, cf. Hattatt, Iron Age and Roman Brooches item 466; Hattatt, Brooches of Antiquity item 1234.

Provenance:
Property of a gentleman.

Estimate: £160 - 200 (EUR 200 - 250; USD 250 - 320)

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