Buckle
Unknown Artist
ca. 100 BCE–ca. 500 CE
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
H. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm); W. 1 1/4 in. (3.1 cm); thickness 7/16 in. (1.1 cm); Wt. 0.7 oz. (19 g)
Classification
Miscellaneous-Buckles & Ornament
Culture
Ibero-Roman
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Bashford Dean, 1920
Accession Number
20.152.34
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze buckle, crafted by an unknown Ibero-Roman artisan around 100 BCE to 500 CE, exemplifies the fusion indigenous Iberian traditions with Roman influences in the ancient Iberian Peninsula. Measuring just1 1/2 inches high and weighing a mere 0.7 ounces, its compact form—likely part of a belt or strap—highlights the practicality of Roman provincial metalwork. Cast in durable bronze, a favored medium for its corrosion resistance and ability to capture fine details, the buckle served both functional and decorative purposes, bridging everyday utility with subtle artistry. Housed ...