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Bronze Age Fibulae.

Central European.
8th Century B.C.

The three fibulae are made identically, each from a single piece of wire which has been very tightly twisted into two coiled spirals;  if carefully examined the wire can be seen to begin and end with the pin and attachment loop at the back of the brooch.

Although very little art from the European Bronze Age survives, brooches like these give us an idea of the motifs which are likely to be found on other artefacts, maybe they were carved into wooden bowls and pressed into pottery. This conjoined spiral is certainly amongst the oldest of designs from ancient Europe and is found in the Neolithic period which preceded the Bronze Age. It is likely that this spiral motif had ritualistic significance and indeed it is found in primitive cultures elsewhere in the world.

Condition: Excellent unrestored condition, mounted on contemporary bronze stands.

Provenance:
Swiss Private Collection.
Dr R.H (1922-2007).
Acquired on the European art market in the 1980s -1990s.

Reference:
Antiquities from Europe and the Near East in the Collection of The Lord McAlpine of West Green pub. Ashmolean Publications.

Price on application





Stock number

1884
Open by appointment only

The BADA Standard

  • Since 1918, BADA has been the leading association for the antiques and fine art trade
  • Members are elected for their knowledge, integrity and quality of stock
  • Our clients are protected by BADA’s code of conduct
  • Our dealers’ membership is reviewed and renewed annually
  • Bada.org is a non-profit site: clients deal directly with members and they pay no hidden fees
Click here for more information on the BADA Standard