Roman / Celtic Enameled Bronze Fibula Fragment w/ Skull

Northwestern Europe, England, Roman Britain with Celtic influence, ca. 100 BCE to 200 CE. An interesting bronze fibula pin of a rectangular form surmounted by a skull finial on the upper tip. The central flat panel body has 2 rows of circular depressions that once contained inlays of colorful enamel. From the verso of the styled skull is the catch plate for a pin, now absent, that once attached to the opposite end via a hinge or spring. Fibula pins were used for holding cloaks shut, a necessity in the chilly climate of Roman Britain, and this macabre example was likely influenced by the belief of Celtic and La Tene culture that the heads of heroes and warriors held power and strength after death. Size: 1.5" L x 0.5" W (3.8 cm x 1.3 cm)

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection; ex-private Gabriel Vandevoort collection, Ancient Resource Auctions, Montrose, California

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#169834
Condition Report: Losses to pin, hinge, and catch. Abrasions and losses to enamel area. Mineral deposits and russet patina. Skull head is intact.