Italic Bronze Bow Brooch
8th-7th century B.C. With a simple curved arch decorated with engraved banding; integral pin and large catchplate. Cf. Richardson, A., In search of the Samnites: Adornment and Identity in Archaic Central Italy, 750-350 B.C., figs.5.13, p.54, for similar simple arch fibula. 32 grams, 88 mm (3 1/2 in.).

From the family collection of a Surrey gentleman since before 1960. Chronological and geographical variations of the Italic fibulae are dependent on the decoration of the arch. The use of bronze and iron (and even silver and electrum in the south) is less of a factor within the individual type series than it is for the overall trend of styles. The rare use of iron in the seventh century and increasingly frequent use throughout the sixth century never rivalled the popularity of bronze, which remained more practical and convenient for working with familiar techniques. [No Reserve]