Lot 36
Western Europe, France/ Gaul, Merovingian Dynasty, ca. 5th to 6th century CE. A stunning buckle clasp of a hefty form for its petite size, its body formed from a loop ring, a curved pin, and a circular body all formed from 97.4% to 98.1% gold. The bottom panel of the circular body is folded backwards and secured in place via 3 petite rivets, and within the body are 2 semicircular garnet fragments - exhibiting sumptuous crimson hues - separated by a tapered central tab. The curved pin and loop ring dangle freely beneath the body and enabled the wearer to secure straps or other garnets at will. Lustrous layers of patina have developed across the surfaces and imbue the piece with an enticing presentation evocative of the ancient world. Size: 1.4" L x 0.63" W (3.6 cm x 1.6 cm); gold quality: 97.4% to 98.1% (equivalent to 22K+); total weight: 17.6 grams
Merovingian and other cultural styles from the period after the fall of the Roman Empire - variously referred to as the Dark Ages, the Migration Period, or, more archaically, the Period of Barbarian Invasions - appeal to us not only because of their extraordinary beauty, but because they are rarely seen today. The Merovingians were a Frankish dynasty who ruled a large portion of western and central Europe for approximately three hundred years. During that time, they practiced a pagan religion in which people were buried with vast wealth. For example, gold items like this one have been found in the tombs of warriors such as one in Vermand, France. Precious metal and red stones were often used in Migration period jewelry to denote the most elite individuals, inspired by contact with Greek colonies along the Black Sea, who in turn began to cater to pagan clients. The garnets themselves probably originated in Burma and traveled to European shores via India and the Silk Road.
Provenance: private Boynton Beach, Florida, USA collection; ex-DS Lavender Antiques, London, UK
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#168984
- Condition: Light abrasions to body, loop ring, pin, and both garnets, with slight loosening to rivets, slight bending and tearing to back panel on body, and a couple of petite casting flaws in scattered areas, otherwise intact and excellent. Wonderful patina throughout, and lovely coloration to garnets.
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