Dolphin-shaped fibula; Roman Empire, 1st–2nd centuries A.D.

Roman dolphin-shaped fibula. Roman Empire, 1st–2nd centuries AD.
Bronze with an oxidation patina.
Provenance: Family bequest from Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. Archaeological collection assembled beginning in the 1950s by successive generations of the family through purchases at European galleries and auction houses.
Measurements: 4 cm in length.

Roman bronze fibula of the so-called “dolphin” type, characterized by a pronounced arch with a curvilinear profile that tapers progressively toward the base. It features moldings at the head and retains the metal pin, as well as part of the fastening mechanism. The surface displays a patina of green and brown hues.

Dolphin-type fibulae are part of the evolution of the brooches used in Roman clothing during the early centuries of the Empire. Their name derives from the characteristic curvature of the arch, whose silhouette schematically resembles the profile of a dolphin, though this does not necessarily imply a figurative representation of the animal. Their design combines the functionality of the clasp mechanism with a formal configuration characteristic of Roman metalwork.