Pin
Unknown Artist
4th century BCE
Medium
bronze
Classification
Pin
Culture
European
Department
Costume Institute
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. Ralph M. Chait, 1943
Accession Number
C.I.43.2.5
Art Historical Context
This elegant bronze pin, dating to the 4th century BCE, hails from ancient Europe and exemplifies the practical artistry of early Iron Age cultures. Crafted by an unknown artisan, it served as a functional accessory—likely for fastening cloaks, tunics, or hair—in everyday life and ceremonial dress. Its presence in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute highlights personal adornments reveal insights into ancient social customs, status, and craftsmanship. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, a prized medium in prehistoric Europe for its durability and workability. Artisans employed l...