‘Exquisite’ Roman brooch with unique design set for first public display
The brooch will go on show for the first time in the exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire which opens at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh in November (National Museums Scotland)
A rare Romanbrooch, described as an “exquisite” miniature masterpiece, is set to go on public display for the first time.
Unearthed by a metal detectorist in a Midlothian field in 2022, the bronze artefact dates from around 100-160 AD and features a unique blend of local and Roman design styles.
Experts believe the brooch, crafted in northern England, was likely a gift from the Roman world to a local leader, serving as a symbol of status and favour.
It will be a highlight of the ‘Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire’ exhibition, opening in November at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
The exhibition, running from November 2026 to April 2027, aims to reshape understanding of Scotland’s relationship with the Roman world, featuring other significant finds like altars from the Mithras temple at Inveresk.
