Roman fishing hook

ITEM: Fishing hook
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 75 mm x 42 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex European private collection, Ex Galerie Bader (1976), Ex private collection, M.E.S., Switzerland

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 4 to 6 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the amount of the sale, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Roman fishing hooks, like many of the everyday tools used during the period, reflect the Romans' practical approach to life and their sophisticated understanding of craftsmanship. These hooks were made primarily from metal, such as bronze, iron, or occasionally steel, and were designed with a sharp, curved end to catch fish effectively. Roman fishing hooks varied in size depending on the type of fish they were intended to catch, from small hooks for freshwater species to larger ones used in saltwater fishing. They were often part of a larger fishing kit that might also include nets, lines, and weights, enabling both leisure and commercial fishing across the Roman Empire.

Fishing was an important activity in Roman society, particularly in coastal areas and around rivers where fish were abundant and a significant part of the Roman diet. Romans used these hooks not only for personal sustenance but also for trade, as fish was a popular commodity in markets throughout the empire. Large-scale commercial fishing, especially in the Mediterranean, employed these hooks in tandem with other tools such as tridents and larger nets. Archaeological evidence suggests that fishing was not just a rural activity but also part of urban life, with fish being a key ingredient in Roman feasts and banquets. Roman fishmongers, who sold fresh fish, often relied on efficient fishing methods that included hooks and other specialized equipment.

The design of Roman fishing hooks varied over time and by region, with some hooks featuring intricate decorations or inscriptions, reflecting the influence of Roman culture and artistic traditions. Some examples found in archaeological digs are simple, with a single curved barb, while others are more ornate, showcasing local craftsmanship. Fishing hooks were sometimes made in the shape of fish or animals, serving both a functional and symbolic purpose. In addition to their practical use in fishing, hooks may have had a symbolic significance in Roman culture, representing themes of abundance or connection to nature.