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Bow Brooch, ca. 600
Langobardic; Made in central Italy
Silver with partial gilding, inlaid with niello; 6 5/16 x 3 3/4 in. (17.6 x 9.5 cm)
Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1955 (55.56)

Hidden within the hatched geometric patterns that cover the surface of this impressively large brooch are zoomorphic creatures with ribbonlike bodies and heads with long jaws. They are complemented by the animal heads projecting from the edges. Brooches with a menagerie of stylized creatures are characteristic of Langobardic jewelry production in the sixth and early seventh centuries.


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    Bow Brooch, ca. 600
    Langobardic; Made in central Italy
    Silver with partial gilding, inlaid with niello; 6 5/16 x 3 3/4 in. (17.6 x 9.5 cm)
    Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1955 (55.56)