Ave!
Roman Era Crossbow Fibula, 3rd-4th Cent. AD, Magnificent!
Copper alloy; 80mm/40.1gm
Con/ Missing pin, otherwise, As Fabricated; eye-pleasing dark brown patina, cleaned and waxed
Ref/ Similar to Hattatt 1267
Seller's Note/ This large crossbow fibula exhibits everything serious collectors are seeking. Note how the full wire wrap about the bow and shank is still in place (very rare as most have been degraded and lost to time). The wire at the top was peened flat and the middle finial was then attached, while the wire on the shank has been bent beneath and then soldered into place. Another wire has been wrapped about the junction of the bow and shank to further add to the strength of the brooch adornment.