8750. A SUPERB ROMANO-BRITISH BOARS HEAD FIBULA, c. early 5th century AD. The finely worked silver fibula terminating in a boar's head with tusks and ridged mane above the head plate, the body decorated with bands of raised silver filigreed 'X's the length of both sides, the three knobs of the head plate and the tail set with garnets, the boar's eyes also set with garnets, the owner's name preceded by a Christian cross inscribed on the catch plate. According to Dr. Richard Hobbs, curator of Romano-British Collections at the British Museum, the inscription reads (cross)ANDIAT most likely making the owner Andiatus a name also attested from an altar at Carvoran. Remains of parcel gilding on the head plate and body. 3.2 inches. Silver pin possibly restored. Ex. Joseph Ternbach collection. A museum quality example of ancient art. Cf. 'Jewelry 7000 Years', ed. Hugh Tait, #354 for a similar but lesser example from the British Museum, PRB 1954.12-6.1 found near Sussex. Inscription view. Left side. $17,500
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