Small fibulae, such as this piece, were worn by both Roman soldiers and subjects across the empire. They served both a decorative and practical function, being used to fasten articles of clothing, such as cloaks or togae. They often took on the form of stylised animals, with zoomorphic brooches being one of the most popular designs of plate brooches. Animals were a favoured decorative motif across Roman art, either in association with specific deities or myths, or as popular domestic animals. Leopards were a fairly common presence in the Roman Colosseum. Unlike some animals who held the role of performers, big cats were primarily opponents or executioners.
Roman Openwork Silver Brooch with Leopard Attacking a Gazelle
£ 1,000.00
A striking Roman silver openwork brooch of a leopard attacking a gazelle. This piece is exceptional in its quality with both animals depicted with naturalistic details. The big cat on the left is portrayed on its hind legs with its teeth and claws tearing the gazelle apart. The leopard is identifiable by the circular and crescent shaped marking incised across its body. In contrast to the dynamic figure of the leopard, the gazelle is depicted collapsing backwards and down, with its hind legs giving out, its head thrown back and its, once deadly, horns partially hidden behind the body. The back of the brooch is smooth and unadorned. A curved catch-plate and the original pin attached to a hinge remain to the reverse of the plate, now fixed in place.
Provenance: Ex. Cambridge collection of a Lady, 1990s.
Condition: Excellent condition. Both the the pin and the catch-plate remain intact but fixed in place.
| Weight | 15.19 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | L 2.9 x W 3.6 cm |
| Metal | Silver |
| Region | Southern Europe |
Reference: For a similar brooch, Bonhams, Antiquities auction, 22 October 2013, lot 204
