Lot 135
Roman, Imperial period, Eastern Empire, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A rare and evocative leaded bronze bust of the Anatolian moon god Men, shown with stylized facial features, softly parted hair, and a crescent moon rising behind his shoulders - a hallmark of his Roman iconography. The youthful deity wears a toga-like garment draped across his chest in sharply cast folds, and his forward gaze evokes solemnity and divinity. The crescent, once mistaken in earlier interpretations for wings or arms, is a consistent symbol in Greco-Roman depictions of Men, affirming his role as lord of lunar rhythms, nocturnal protection, and cosmic order. This bust may have once served as a decorative fitting on a ceremonial standard, oil lamp, or furniture element - an object meant to channel divine presence in public or sacred space. Size: 1" L x 1.6" W x 1.9" H (2.5 cm x 4.1 cm x 4.8 cm); 3.8" H (9.7 cm) on included custom stand.
Worship of Men, rooted in Asia Minor and especially strong in Phrygia and Lydia, was absorbed into the broader Roman pantheon, blending Hellenistic visual language with Anatolian spiritual traditions. Representations of the god appear in coins, sculpture, and temple reliefs across the eastern provinces.
The piece survives with a mottled green patina and mineral accretions consistent with long burial. Though worn with age and showing losses at the base, the figure retains strong detailing in the hair and drapery. Mounted on a custom marble and brass display base, this compelling fragment stands as both a religious icon and a cultural bridge between Rome and the East.
Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection, acquired in March 2019; ex-Palmyra Heritage Gallery, New York, New York, USA; ex-Harlan J. Berk collection; ex-USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 - 2010
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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.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#195397
- Condition: Adhered to custom display stand. Chipping near base, as well as some nicks and weathering to surface, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice remaining detail and lovely green patina.
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