Lot 70A
Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A powerful Roman leaded bronze doorknocker in the form of a lion's head, its commanding visage rendered with deeply incised mane and sharp, almond-shaped eyes. The beast's mouth clasps a heavy leaded bronze ring, boasting a high lead content (estimated 48-90%) that gives the piece its distinctive gray-green patina. The ring hangs freely, designed to strike the door with weight and resonance, while three iron bolts remain embedded in the mount, testifying to its original functional use. Throughout the Roman world, lions symbolized strength, guardianship, and divine protection, making them a fitting motif for domestic thresholds. Such doorknockers not only served practical purposes but also conveyed status and authority, signaling both wealth and Roman ideals of power. Size of doorknocker: 4.5" W x 6.1" H (11.4 cm x 15.5 cm); of matte: 13" W x 13.5" H (33 cm x 34.3 cm)
Similar examples have been recovered from villas, bathhouses, and public structures across the empire, underscoring their widespread use and enduring appeal. Mounted for display, this piece embodies the fusion of artistry and utility characteristic of Roman bronze craftsmanship.
Provenance: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005
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.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
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.
#197406
- Condition: Mounted to a custom matte. Ring has been constructed from three different pieces, likely not original to piece but still of period stated. Some chipping to periphery of lion mount and possible resurfacing in areas. Otherwise, nice presentation with good detail and rich patina throughout.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| 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 |