Description:

Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A graceful manifestation of celestial charm cast in a richly patinated lead-copper alloy, this Roman finial depicts Cupid, the beloved winged god of love and affection. With beautifully rendered wings extended behind him, Cupid sits poised in gentle repose, gracefully balancing symbolic emblems in each hand. In his right hand, he holds an orb - symbolizing dominion over hearts and earthly desires; in the left, a wreath representing eternal victory in love's delicate conquest. The finely sculpted details of Cupid's youthful form reveal expert craftsmanship, from his soft facial features and expressive eyes to his gently delineated musculature. Delicate feathering on his wings underscores the piece's subtle artistry, enhancing the ethereal quality of this delightful figure. Size: 1.9" L x 2.3" W x 3.3" H (4.8 cm x 5.8 cm x 8.4 cm); 3.9" H (9.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Originally adorning furniture, lamps, or architectural elements, finials like this communicated the refined taste and sophisticated ideals of their Roman owners. Today, the piece continues to embody timeless elegance and romantic symbolism, providing an enchanting glimpse into the aesthetics of ancient Rome.

Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 - 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

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#195505

  • Condition: Possibly a fragment of a larger staff. Chipping to base and weathering to surface as shown, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with good remaining detail.

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Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

September 4, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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