FIBULA. — The Latin term *f.* (Greek τρεφή, τράχη, ένστή) refers both to the safety pin and to the belt buckle or clasp. In archaeological usage, the term generally designates the safety pin, which, due to the extraordinary frequency of its finds and the great variety of types, constitutes a valuable element for chronological classification in the study of ancient civilization, particularly in the Western world.
With regard to Christian archaeology, fibulae often bear religious symbols as adornments. However, many emblems presumed to be Christian should not be considered as such. A characteristic feature of the East is the crossbow-shaped buckle, often inscribed (e.g., δαυό γάμης). Notable are the precious barbarian clasps shaped like eagles. A typical representation on Burgundian fibulae is that of Daniel among the lions. In an example from La Balme, the depiction is of Daniel and Habacuc. A round gold-plated fibula found at Oron bears the figure of a horseman, identified by some as King Solomon or St. George.
