The Three Rotterdam Brooches

In 2009-2010, during the excavations for Rotterdam’s magnificent Markthal, a small wooden box with a lid was uncovered. It contained three pewter brooches. The box and brooches have been dated to 1350-1400. The originals are in rough shape after their 600 year nap, and one of them – the Hexagram – was an incomplete casting. We have studied very closely the excellent image of the brooches supplied by Archeologie Rotterdam (BOOR), as well as looking at comparable contemporary brooches, to produce these careful replicas.

Our brooches offer an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy three attractive pieces of medieval jewelry that are indisputably contemporary with one another. Not to mention they are beautiful.

The Rotterdam Sexfoil (11/16″ / 18mm) is demure and rounded, with a central boss that echoes the use of cabochon jewels in precious settings. The Rotterdam Hexagram (15/16″ / 23mm) is a striking six-pointed figure with a central flower. Like many hexagram-shaped pieces of jewelry, it may been regarded as a good luck charm. The Rotterdam Star (7/8″ / 22mm) has a strong, complex design. It is the sparkliest brooch we make, with its nearly excessive number of reflective facets.

Sold individually or together (with a modest discount). Treat your friends or wear them all yourself!

Read our blog post on making the turned wooden box.