Description:

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. A handsome bronze attachment in the form of a lion seated on his haunches with a wavy mane framing his expressive roaring visage. His fierce, gaping mouth serves as a socketing hole with additional perforations piercing his chest and posterior to aid in attachment. The details of the mane and face are beautifully rendered, suggesting that the maker was familiar with the animals - perhaps having seen them at their local circus or gladiator battle. In the classical world, lions symbolized power, wealth, and might. They were famously featured in many ancient myths, perhaps the most famous being that of Hercules (Greek Herakles) slaying the Nemean lion for his first labor. That lion's fur was believed to be impenetrable to attacks since according to legend it was made of gold and its claws were far sharper than swords with the power to slice through armor. In the end, Hercules defeated the lion by strangling it and wore its skin. Size: 0.7" W x 2.4" H (1.8 cm x 6.1 cm)

Lions were also favorite iconography for buildings, coins, and statues in the ancient world. Examples include the Lion Gate to the Citadel of Mycenae, the Terrace of the Lions on the island of Delos, and the lion hunt mosaic from Pella featuring Alexander engaged in a lion hunt.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#175395

  • Condition: Expected surface wear commensurate with age, but otherwise intact and in overall great condition with nice remaining detail. Rich patina throughout.

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January 12, 2023 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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