Replica of 7th Century Merovingian Spoke Fibula 1931

Curator: This is a replica of a 7th-century Merovingian spoke fibula. What strikes you about it? Editor: It has a rough, almost primal feel. The materiality and dark color lend an air of solemnity. Curator: Absolutely. Fibulae, like this one, were functional cloak pins, but also potent symbols of status and identity in Merovingian society, particularly for women. Editor: Considering its purpose, one can speculate about the labor involved in its production, the types of tools used, and the social hierarchy embedded in craft production. Curator: The geometric and zoomorphic patterns speak to complex belief systems. As adornments, these fibulae visually communicated power, gender and kinship within the Merovingian world. Editor: It’s a humble reminder that even the smallest objects carry so much material and social history. Curator: A perfect intersection of art, function, and social narrative.