Lot 71B
1st C. Roman Bronze Bust Applique of a Youth
1st C. Roman Bronze Bust Applique of a Youth
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Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A dynamic and sensitively modeled copper alloy bust applique, once affixed to a larger object, likely a vessel, chariot, or piece of furniture, offering a compelling portrait of youthful masculinity rendered in the classical tradition. The young man is cast in high relief, his head turned slightly to one side as if caught in mid-thought, his eyes wide and lips gently parted. Tight curls encircle his head in neatly defined rows, suggesting a Greco-Roman ideal of beauty drawn from the heroic canon. This figure's bare chest is meticulously formed with subtle anatomical detailing across the collarbones and pectorals. Three perforations remain at the chest and shoulders, where the piece was once attached to a functional object. Size: 3.3" W x 4.7" H (8.4 cm x 11.9 cm); 5.3" H (13.5 cm) on included custom stand.
The reverse is hollow, consistent with decorative attachments meant to be viewed only from the front. Patches of dark green and reddish patina add depth to the surface, testifying to centuries of burial and oxidation. Such appliques were popular throughout the Roman world and often served both ornamental and symbolic purposes. They were mounted on ceremonial items or elite furnishings, projecting power, refinement, and alignment with classical virtues. Comparable bronze busts appear in Roman provincial sites from Gaul to Syria, many depicting deities, athletes, or youthful heroes emblematic of vitality and idealized Roman identity.
Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 - 2010
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#195036
- Condition: Professionally repaired with break lines visible on verso. Weathering to surface commensurate with age, but otherwise very nice with good detail and rich patina throughout.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |