Disk Brooch
Unknown Artist
200–500
Medium
Copper alloy, glass or garnet
Dimensions
Overall: 1 9/16 x 1 1/8 x 1/4 in. (4 x 2.8 x 0.7 cm)
Classification
Metalwork-Copper alloy
Culture
Roman
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
Accession Number
17.191.296
Art Historical Context
This delicate Disk Brooch crafted by an unknown Roman artisan between 200 and 500 CE, exemplifies the fine metalwork of the late Roman Empire. Measuring just 1 9/16 x 1 1/8 x 1/4 inches, it fashioned from copper alloy, adorned with vibrant glass or garnet inlays would have caught the light with rich color. Such brooches served as practical fasteners for cloaks and garments while doubling as symbols of status and personal style, common among both men and women in Roman society. The piece reflects advanced techniques in casting and inlay work, where the copper alloy base was likely incised or c...