An ancient Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 4th century CE. A gold crossbow fibula or brooch with a bronze pin used to fasten a cloak of a Roman soldier and citizen. It is cruciform, with slender applied strands adorning the arms just before the terminals, a round boss at the top, more strands wrapped below it as well as at the opposite end of the bow form. A thick pin is present on the back. During the late Roman Empire, brooches of this style were fashionable, particularly among the elite class. They bear a resemblance to those discovered in contemporary Baltic tribes during the early Migration period, suggesting a fusion of cultures during this turbulent era. This crossbow style fibula was widely popular in ancient times, found across the Roman Empire from Britain to Syria. Antique and Ancient Historical Collectibles, Roman Jewelry. Weight 15 grams.