4th-5th century AD. A bifacial bronze pommel or fitting formed as an eagle's head with substantial hooked beak, large alert eyes; collar at base of neck, pierced for attachment. 31.5 grams, 41mm (1 1/2"). From a private Buckinghamshire, UK, collection; acquired before 2000. Although the eagle is a motif both obviously and strongly linked to the Roman military, the clearest depiction of an eagle head pommel is of late date, appearing at the end of a long sword of spatha type worn by the embracing Tetrarchs once in the Philadelphion of Constantinople and now built into the corner of St Mark's Square, Venice. The Tetrarchic example appears more stylised, with the neck of the eagle elongated to form the handle grip. [No Reserve]