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Serpentine Brooch, 6th century B.C.; Iron Age, Halstatt period
Copper alloy; 1 1/2 x 10 7/8 in. (3.8 x 27.7 cm)
Purchase, Alastair B. Martin Gift, 1992 (1992.280.3)

This lovely bronze brooch dates from the sixth century B.C. Brooches like these are characterized as serpentine because of their twisting, snakelike shape. Brooches of this type are found all over western and central Europe, most often in Italy. Both men and women are buried with them, and although they are usually made from bronze, examples have also been found made from gold, silver, and even iron.


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    Serpentine Brooch, 6th century B.C.; Iron Age, Halstatt period
    Copper alloy; 1 1/2 x 10 7/8 in. (3.8 x 27.7 cm)
    Purchase, Alastair B. Martin Gift, 1992 (1992.280.3)