|
Date: |
|
Description: | An incomplete cast copper-alloy Roman trumpet-headed 'fly' brooch (2nd century AD). The bow, trumpet-shaped head, pin and enamel inlay are missing. The surviving parts of the brooch, comprising the leg and foot knob, are in the form of an insect's wings and head. The wings have a maximum width of 17.45mm and are triangular in plan as if the insect, probably a fly, is in a resting pose. The bulbous foot knob represents the head. Each wing has a semi-circular recess to accommodate enamel. The straight side of the cells face outwards and the curved sides are inward facing. Below these cells and just above the thorax, is a central cell in the shape of an inverted heart. All three cells are empty and there is no indication as to the colour of the missing enamel. The thorax, separating the wings and head, is in the form of a small transverse rib. The bulbous head is tri-lobed, two of the lobes representing eyes and the third lower and central lobe acting as the front of the head and mandible.The rear of the brooch is flat, except for the remains of the catchplate which is situated along the longitudinal centre-line. The catchplate is now abraded, sub-triangular in form, and extends up the brooch for c. 11.2mm. Along the top edge, at the centre, is an old break, where the missing bow would have joined.The piece is in good condition and has a patchy dark grey-green patina. The raised elements on the upper surface have a greyer, more metallic sheen, and it is possible that the front of the brooch at least was tinned or silvered but that this has worn off, leaving just a hint of the former coating.A number of trumpet-headed 'fly' can be found illustrated in Hattatt (2000, 329; fig. 188). The closest in form, based on the shape of the cells, can be found in Hattatt (1987, 141; ref. 975). In addition a very similar brooch has been recorded on this database - IOW-8723E4.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
|
More Like this...
-
BROOCH
An incomplete cast copper alloy…
-
BROOCH
An incomplete Roman copper-alloy and…
-
BROOCH
An incomplete cast copper alloy…
-
BROOCH
An incomplete cast copper alloy…
-
BROOCH
An incomplete cast copper alloy…
-
BROOCH
An incomplete and worn Roman…
-
BROOCH
A Roman copper alloy brooch.…
-
BROOCH
A cast copper alloy Trumpet…
-
BROOCH
A cast copper alloy Trumpet…
-
brooch
Copper alloy brooch, Trumpet type…
|