Square-Headed Bow Brooch

Unknown

second half 6th century · Silver-gilt, niello · Medieval Art

The bow brooch was a component of many Germanic women's dress. In Frankish territory brooches were generally worn in pairs, as decorative elements on a strap hanging from the belt. The bow refers to the bend or curve that links two terminals.

Artist

Unknown

Date

second half 6th century

Medium

Silver-gilt, niello

Culture

Frankish

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917