Gold sanguisuga-type fibulae (safety pins) with glass paste bows
Glass was a rare and expensive commodity in archaic Italy. A number of fibulae with bows made of glass paste have been excavated at Etruscan sites from Bologna to Veii but all of these have bronze pins and catch plates. Our examples, the only ones known to employ gold, must have significantly enhanced their owner's status.
This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
