Pin

Art Historical Context

This elegant 7th-century Frank pin, crafted from copper alloy with a "tinned" surface, a glimpse into the daily lives of early medieval Europeans. Measuring just over 8 inches long and at a third of an inch wide, it likely served as a practical fastener for clothing or cloaks, blending utility with subtle adornment. The tinning—coating the copper alloy with a thin layer of tin— a bright, silvery sheen that mimicked more precious metals like silver, making fine accessories accessible to a broader range of people. Hailing from the Frankish culture during the Merovingian period (roughly 481–751 ...