Etruscan Gold: The Regolini-Galassi Tomb

Grand Fibula 

In 1836 the archaeologists Archbishop Alessandro Regolini and General Vincenzo Galassi uncovered an intact tomb of a high-ranking Etruscan womanIn the western necropolis of Cerveteri, in the village of Sorbo. Following the discovery of the tomb’s spectacular treasures, which included hundreds of pieces of jewelry, all things Etruscan became fashionable in Europe. Italian goldsmiths, masters in the techniques of granulation and filigree work, developed neo-Etruscan style jewelry.

This grand gold fibula adorned with five tiny lions depicted striding across its surface, and a large 25 cm long plaque, decorated with depictions of animals of Eastern origin was one of the many gold items found in the tomb.The fibula has been acclaimed as masterful in technique.

Disc fibula in gold, From Regolini-Galassi tomb in Cerveteri (Rome) .650 BC

Although the limited excavation data indicate an origin from the fibula near the head of the deceased, it is plausible to imagine its use as a stop on the shoulder of her dress. The type and technique typically attach the object to the local manufacturing Etruscan.

The piece is kept at the Gregorian Etruscan Museum of the Vatican.