Museum Location: Orkney Museum
Date: 2nd century AD.
Period: Iron Age
Accession Number: 1982.202.2347
Collection Place: Howe of Howe, Stromness
Summary: This insect-shaped brooch is made from copper-alloy, with outstretched tinned wings. The iron pin is hinged at the insect’s tail and catches under the front of its body. It has a round head with moulded drooping eyes and a small moulded dot for a nose. The brooch displays evidence of two processes – tinning and enameling.
It probably dates to the 2nd century AD. Brooches shaped like animals or insects were made in Britain, Gaul and Belgica in the early centuries AD, though this one is unusual, because it shows the insect in flight.
Object description: This brooch was found during excavations of the broch settlement at Howe, Stromness. The site was excavated between 1978-1982. The brooch was found in a late phase of occupation of the broch tower.
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