Greek Bronze Pouncing Lion Fibula

Greek Bronze Pouncing Lion Fibula, ca. 580 BC. A ferocious lion stretched out with gaze directed forward, mouth open with tongue and teeth bared. A pin would have been fastened to the bottom but is now lost. Lion fibulae similar to this one have been found at a number of Peloponnesian sanctuary sites. These heavy broaches were apparently popular offerings to the deities in Archaic Greece. Ex 207th Buy or Bid Sale, May 2019, lot 402. Ex German Private Collection, 1980's. L. 2 1/2" (6 cm)..