Roman bird fibula, bronze

Product description

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

Roman animal brooches shaped like birds, horses, or fish were commonly used between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD and are believed to have held symbolic significance. The dove, in particular, has carried various meanings throughout history. In the context of the biblical Flood, it represents hope and peace when depicted with an olive branch. In oriental mythology, the dove is associated with the fertility goddess Ishtar, while in Greek and Roman mythology, the dove often accompanies deities like Aphrodite and Venus, symbolising 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. As such, the dove became a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, as well as piety and reverence. This enduring symbolism highlights the bird's rich and varied cultural significance across different eras and traditions.

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