Roman Axe Plate Brooch
2nd-3rd century A.D. A bronze plate brooch formed as an axe, scrolled tendrils to socket and butt, slender handle; hinged pin and catch to the reverse. Cf. Melchart, W., Antike Kostbarkeiten aus Osterreichischem privatbesitz, Wien, 1997, fig.22, for a very similar specimen. 13.6 grams, 47 mm (1 7/8 in.). Acquired before 2000.From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK. The fibula, made for a military cloak, belongs to the type 28 of Jobst classification. Similar fibulae were widespread in the central part of the Limes between Germania Superior and Raetia.