Anglo-Saxon fibula Oxford, bronze

Product description

The oval-shaped snake brooch features two intertwined snakes biting each other's bodies, a motif commonly seen in Vendel period jewellery. The design is based on a historical piece now housed in the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, UK. Whilst the original brooch measures approximately 4.5 x 2 cm, this reproduction has dimensions of 3.8 x 2.8 cm and is fitted with a sturdy pin suitable for thicker fabrics. It is available in high-quality bronze.

Between 540 and 800 AD, snake-shaped brooches were popular across Scandinavia, with their designs evolving over time. Early examples were S-shaped, inspired by Alemannic brooches from the continent. By the early 7th century, these were replaced by oval designs depicting two snakes biting each other. This type of brooch remained in use until around 700 AD, with a few being made into the early 8th century.

Snake brooches were worn exclusively by women, typically as part of a set. Two matching brooches were worn on either side of the chest, with their pins pointing upwards. A third, slightly larger brooch was often placed below the chin to fasten a cloak, completing the ensemble.