Roman Empire, ca. 1st–3rd century CE

This is an authentic ancient Roman bronze hairpin, known as an acus, used in antiquity to secure elaborate hairstyles and hair arrangements. The piece features a finely twisted spiral shaft tapering to a sharp point, with a distinctive forked (bifurcated) terminal, a form commonly associated with Roman cosmetic and personal adornment objects.

Measuring 5 1/16 inches in length, this example falls within the desirable longer range for Roman hairpins, intended for securing buns, braids, or wigs. The surface displays a stable dark olive to brown patina, consistent with ancient bronze, with no modern cleaning or restoration observed.

Hairpins of this type were widely used throughout the Roman world by women of varying social classes and are frequently recovered from domestic and burial contexts. This example is well-preserved and visually striking, suitable for display, study, or collection.

Details:

• Culture: Roman Empire
• Date: ca. 1st–3rd century CE
• Material: Bronze
• Length: 5 1/16 inches (12.9 cm)
• Condition: Intact, stable ancient patina

Guaranteed authentic. A genuine artifact of everyday life in the ancient Roman world.

Ex. Private Palm Harbor, Fl. collection.