Copper alloy brooch. Enamelled; axe shaped. From VR72-80, Victoria Road, Winchester, Hampshire. Excavated by Winchester Archaeology Section, 1972-1980.

Copper alloy brooch. Enamelled; axe shaped. From VR72-80, Victoria Road, Winchester, Hampshire. Excavated by Winchester Archaeology Section, 1972-1980.

Enamelled brass plate brooch

Roman, probably 2nd century AD

Found during excavations by Winchester Museums Service Archaeology Section at Victoria Road, Winchester in the mid- to late 1970s

This axe shaped brass brooch is inset with enamel of blue and what was originally red, and the brass surface is tinned to imitate silver. Unlike many Roman brooches, this object is a badge rather than a fastening for clothing. The axe was perhaps believed to have amuletic powers and connected with a religious cult or a ritual.

Copper alloy brooch. Enamelled; axe shaped. From VR72-80, Victoria Road, Winchester, Hampshire. Excavated by Winchester Archaeology Section, 1972-1980.