BROOCH

An incomplete copper alloy Colchester derivative (Dolphin sprung) brooch of Roman date (AD 43-65). The rearward facing hook, spring, pin, and the majority of the catchplate are missing.

The wings are broadly semi-cylindrical in profile with open ends. The missing spring would have been held in place by a rearward facing hook projecting from the upper edge of the head. Only the base of the rearward facing hook is visible in the form of a broken projection; this is located at the centre of the bow on the upper edge. The bow head is hump-like, and slightly angular (comma shaped) in profile. At the rear of the head is a sub rectangular shaped concave groove that would have held the spring and pin. The bow tapers from the head to a rounded knop foot. The catch-plate is only partially remaining; in the form of a broadly triangular shaped projection (in profile).The break is well patinated. The wings are decorated with a symmetrical design that consists of two moulded vertical ribs at the outer edges. An inner vertical rib, at either side of the head is filled with small horizontal pellets. The bow of the brooch is decorated with a central 'V' shaped rib that transverses from the outer edge of the upper bow along its length, much of the detail has been lost due to abrasion. At either side of the 'V' is a rib that extends from the head to the knop foot. This rib also consists of horizontal pellets. The brooch has a mid-green to grey coloured patina across all surfaces. The patina has been broken in some places, most notably on the head. This is possibly damage from the plough soil.

There are many examples of Dolphin Sprung type brooches on the database, similar decoration can be seen on an example discovered in West Norfolk (NMS-5A3343) and also (NMS-C54D31) discovered in South Norfolk. Bayley and Butcher (2004:p.158) illustrate similar examples, most notably No T94A. Bayley and Butcher suggest that the Polden Hill type brooch originated later with its closed ended cross bar which secured the axis rod due to the weakness that was seen on the Dolphin sprung type, where the spring was only held by the hook on the head.

The brooch measures 34.43 mm length, 26.19 mm width (across wings), 5.17mm thick at the point where the bow begins to taper, and weighs 5.2 grams.

Bayley, J. and Butcher, S., (2004) Roman Brooches in Britain: A technological and Typological Study Based on the Richborough Collection. London, Society of Antiquaries.