100-300 AD. Roman. Bronze brooch comprising three interlocking dolphins, arranged as if each creature is chasing the tail of creature in front; well-preserved pin and catchplate on the reverse. Brooches were an important element of Roman dress, used to fasten clothing but they also served as dress accessories in their own right. Thousands of different types and subtypes of Roman brooches are attested and they seem to have played an important role in Roman people’s self-expression. Cf. Richard Hattatt. 2000. A Visual Catalogue of Richard Hattatt's Ancient Brooches. Oxbow Books. Excellent condition.Size: L:30mm / W:32mm ; 9.3g; Provenance: Obtained from a B.F; previously in a collection formed in the 1990s on the UK art market.