THESSALY, GEOMETRIC PERIOD, CIRCA 8TH CENTURY B.C.

The distinctive form of this fibula is characteristic of examples from Thessaly that have been discovered in large numbers in the sanctuary of Zeus Thaulios near Pharos. The weight and size of the pin made it impractical for everyday use, and it was likely created as a votive dedication. Although their meaning is not clear, fibulae played a significant role as offerings to deities. For a similar example, see no. 140 in R. Merhav, A Glimpse into the Past: The Joseph Ternbach Collection.