Etruscan Bronze Navicella Fibula, ca. 7th century BCE

 

Northern Italy, Tuscany, Etruscan culture, ca. 7th century BCE. A “navicella” brooch – meaning “ship” – made of bent sheet bronze with a heavy clasp. The form of the body resembles a deep-keeled boat, and the incised lines on the exterior of this example help create the boat-like appearance, as they look like wooden boards. Fibulae were a distinctive piece of Etruscan fashion, and their detail and large size indicates that they were made to be prominently displayed as an outward sign of wealth. Size: 7.8 cm x 3 cm x 4.1 cm.

 

 Condition: Very pretty mottled light and dark green patina on surface. Without pin mechanism. Please study the photos.