Description:

Western Europe, France/Gaul, Merovingian Dynasty, ca. 5th to 6th century CE. A remarkable and ornate fibula brooch made from a high quality 80% silver, with incised linear and low relief scrolling motifs. The 4 circular bezels contain polished red garnets projecting like knobs from the upper head and below the arched midsection is a pointed foot plate shaped like a blade. This richly ornamented piece would have been of great value to its elite owner, used to fasten a mantle at the shoulder, and likely accompanied the owner to the afterlife! The Merovingians were a Frankish dynasty who ruled a large portion of western and central Europe for approximately three hundred years after the fall of the Roman Empire. During that time, they practiced a pagan religion in which people were buried with vast wealth. Size: 3" L x 1.3" W (7.6 cm x 3.3 cm); silver quality: 80%; weight: 19.3 grams

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#175366

  • Condition: Missing pin and russet patina around clasp and hinge area. Dark patina and toning on silver and some softening to details, but overall great condition and garnets are intact.

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November 17, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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