Rare Roman Christian Fibula

The original Garment pin patented two millennia later as the "safety pin". Bronze, 1 /8" length, of small form probably for a delicate woman's Garment. Arched frame with distinct centered cross beam cross above the pin seat. The beam terminals banded and the center with a radial splay. Its simplicity also suggests its use on a Garment of quality from which a larger or fancier fibula would detract. Early Christians were persecuted in the Roman Empire where the established Pagan religion was very important. Even after it was officially accepted in 313, persecutions continued and failure to worship Roman Gods could bring violence. C.4th-6th century.