Fibulae depicted on objects: Typology, chronology, spread and purpose

The fibulae, which emerged in the 2nd mid-millennium B.C., began to be depicted on various archaeological objects by the 9th and 8th centuries B.C. As part of the dissertation, 131 movable-immovable archaeological and cultural assets with fibula depictions were examined. The objects with fibula depictions are stelai, reliefs, figurines, statues, amulets, loom weights, ceramics, coins, mosaics, and frescoes. They were depicted in clothes or a simple form on samples independent of these groups. In the scope of the study, objects with fibula depictions were classified geographically and chronologically according to their functional properties. The literature shows that studies on fibulae are mainly carried out on the typology and chronology of objects. The fibulae depicted on objects were evaluated in an iconographic approach in the study. These objects were determined to contain symbolic values beyond ornament or apparel attachment characteristics. Therefore, the study aims to provide literature with symbolic attributes of the objects mentioned. Studies where fibulae are evaluated with this approach are limited in the literature. Although these objects differ morphologically, they are symbolic reflections of functional and religious practices that have reached the current date for almost the same purposes in many regions. Therefore, no geographical and time limits have been placed in the study to follow chronologically symbolic meanings. Although it does not constitute the main topic of the study, the symbolic values of objects related to fibulae were discussed in the depictions as required by the iconographic context. In parallel with the most intense use of fibulae as an object, the 8th – 5th centuries BC and 3rd - 6th centuries AD is the period in which fibulae are mostly depicted in the art of depiction. Geographically, especially Anatolia, Greece, Aegean Islands, Cyprus, Near East, Balkans, Europe, Italy, Sicily, Spain, and Portugal are regions where fibulae are depicted on various archaeological artifacts. As a result of the study, it was understood that fibulae were described with different purposes according to the period and geography they belonged. These sometimes only appear as part of the clothes. In some cases, it is about belief. Aniconic reflections, grave goods, and things with apotropaic purposes are related to religion. Apart from these, it has been understood that they are also depicted as a sign of status, profession, identity, nationality, and gender. Although fibulae shown on objects are mainly parallel to the typologies of real examples, imaginary examples can also be seen.