Iberian fibula, 3rd–2nd centuries B.C.

Iberian fibula, 3rd–2nd centuries B.C.
Bronze, with coral inlay.
Provenance: A.S. private collection, Barcelona, assembled in the 1980s.
Measurements: 5.2 cm long.
Provenance: Family legacy of Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. Archaeological collection formed from the 1950s by successive generations of the family, through acquisitions in European galleries and auction houses.

The Iberian fibula is found exclusively on the Iberian Peninsula and is characteristic of Iberian art. It is distinguished by a hoop or ring onto which the aforementioned metal arch is mounted, forming a single piece with it. Among the Greek, Phoenician, Celtic, Etruscan, and Roman fibulae found in museums, there is a wide variety of shapes and decorations, which attests to the great importance the ancients placed on this accessory for their attire.