Copper Annular Brooch

Copper alloy annular brooch -  Medieval circa 1200 to 1400

Overview

• Type: Annular brooch (ring-shaped fastening)

• Date: Circa AD 1200–1400

• Material: Cast copper alloy

• Size: Typically 20–40 mm diameter

• Form: Circular or oval ring with attached pivoting pin

Design & Features

• Frame: Plain or lightly decorated (faceted edges, engraved lines).

• Pin: Secured via a constriction or drilled hole, able to rotate.

• Decoration: Modest for copper-alloy versions; wealthier people had silver, gilded, or jewelled examples.

Function & Use

• Fastening Clothing

  • Secured cloaks, mantles, gowns, hoods, and veils.

  • Worked like a safety pin: pin pushed through fabric, rotated so its point rested on the frame.

• Practicality

  • Provided reusable fastening before buttons became widespread in the late 14th century.

  • Adjustable and durable, suitable for heavy wool garments.

• Social Role

  • Common across society; affordable for ordinary people.

  • Also served as a small decorative accessory.