A fibula is a clasp or broach used in Ancient Greece and Rome to secure garments into place. This charming pin takes on the form of a horse. Striding with his front foot raised forward, the stallion appears proud and sure. Although the scale of the work is miniature, determined primarily by its function, the horse is remarkably detailed. Incised lines convey the texture of the broad mane. Depicted in profile, an eye and ear are evident, as is the sloping musculature of the horse’s body. A thin tail falls from behind, incised with the same hatches as the mane. The texture of the tail merges into the layer of ground the horse canters along. Although this fibula served a purely functional purpose, it also became a stylish decoration. While today fashion rarely demands the use of pins to secure our clothes into place, we continue to wear broaches and pins for symbolic or ornamental purposes alone. This horse is a perfect example of where this timeless trend began. As fashion evolved and the fibula grew obsolete, the beauty of such creations continued to be appreciated as self-sufficient. - (FZ.361)

Antiquities
Ancient Jewelry