East Germanic jewelry clasps, early 5th century. Gilded silver, garnet gemstones, glass and enamel (1)
The Fibula – A Decorative Clasp of Historical Significance
The fibula is a very early form of decorative clasp that already existed in the Bronze Age and was used until the Middle Ages. The name is derived from the Latin word fibula (needle). It consists of a needle and a mostly artistically designed bracket and was used to fasten parts of clothing. In addition to its practical and decorative function, it also served as a lucky charm.
In ancient Greece and Rome, the fibula was often worn on the shoulder.
Golden jewelry clasps set with garnet gemstones. 6th century, now in the Louvre in Paris (2)
The Agraffe – a decorative clasp from the late Middle Ages
The agraffe is similar to the fibula in many ways. However, it does not have a bow, but rather a clasp in the shape of a circle or a quatrefoil. In addition, this decorative clasp is not fastened with a pin, but with the help of hooks, which is where the agraffe gets its name from. Its name is derived from the French word agrafe , which means clamp.
The clasp was used to fasten and close cloaks in front of the chest.
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