Brooch in the Form of a Winged Insect, 4th century
Eastern Germanic
Copper alloy; L. 1 3/16 in. (3 cm)
Purchase, William Kelly Simpson Gift, 1993 (1993.263)
Technical Glossary
Eastern Germanic
Copper alloy; L. 1 3/16 in. (3 cm)
Purchase, William Kelly Simpson Gift, 1993 (1993.263)
The winged insect was a popular motif in both Germanic and nomadic metalwork during the late fourth and fifth centuries. Gold bees appeared in the grave of the Frankish king Childeric (d. 482), while other richly appointed graves, such as that at Domagnano (17.190.698), included cicada brooches.
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Related Index Terms
Material and Technique
Object
Subject Matter/Theme
- • Animal
- • Animal, Insect
