Roman bird fibula, bronze

Product description

The original bird brooch comes from the collection of a private art collector in London and was crafted from sheet silver. It depicts a bird with wings and a tail adorned with punched decoration. Like other Roman bird brooches, this dove fibula has a small eyelet on its tail, suggesting it was worn in pairs connected by an intermediate chain. The replica closely matches the historical model, measuring 4.2 x 1.8 x 1.6 cm, and is available in high-quality bronze. A sturdy spiral pin construction on the back keeps it securely in place.

Roman animal brooches shaped like birds, horses, or fish were common between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD and are believed to have carried symbolic meaning. The dove has held many different meanings throughout history. In the context of the biblical Flood, it represents hope and peace when shown with an olive branch. In oriental mythology, the dove is linked to the fertility goddess Ishtar, while in Greek and Roman mythology it often accompanies deities like Aphrodite and Venus, symbolizing love and fertility.

In Christian tradition, the dove took on additional symbolic roles. It appears at the Annunciation of Mary and the baptism of Jesus, representing the presence of the Holy Spirit. The dove thus became a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, as well as piety and reverence. This enduring symbolism reflects the bird's rich and varied cultural significance across different eras and traditions.