Ancient Roman Large

Large, prominently profiled onion-button fibula in bronze Roman Empire 3rd – 4th century AD Onion-button fibulae were in late antiquity not only clothing fasteners but also important status symbols. In particular in the 4th century AD they belonged to the military and civil official attire of the Roman Empire. Their use can be reconstructed both from archaeological finds and from contemporary depictions. Onion-button fibulae served mainly to fasten the late Roman cloak (chlamys) on the right shoulder. Three groups in particular are candidates as wearers: Military personnel: The fibulae were part of late Roman military dress. Especially high-quality variants are associated with officers and higher military functionaries. Civil officials: As the late antique imperial administration became increasingly militarized and the civil service was understood as militia, the cloak and fibula also formed part of the representation of civil servants. Rulers and members of allied elites: Precious golden fibulae could be awarded as imperial honorary gifts. In doing so they symbolized not only rank but also the special relationship of their wearer to the emperor. 87 x 52 x 28 mm Broken in the middle and reassembled, pin gone Acquired 2026 in the German art trade, previously since 1950/1960 in a southern German private collection An invoice is available and will be provided to the buyer in copy

Estimation:200€

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