Lot 53
Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A delicate leaded bronze figure of a youthful Cupid, or perhaps a putto, modeled with a slender body and animated stance. The childlike form stands contrapposto, his weight shifted onto one leg, giving the figure a gentle sway of balance that enlivens the pose. One arm is raised toward the face while the other extends outward, a gesture that conveys both play and divine presence. The wings, once affixed to the back, are now lost, though the figure retains its spirited character. Liberal remains of ancient gilding cling to the surface, catching the light with flashes of gold that hint at the figure's former brilliance and its role as a precious ornament. Figures of Cupid (Eros in the Greek world) appear widely in Roman art, from wall paintings and mosaics to freestanding bronzes such as this. Their presence could invoke love, desire, and joy, while also serving as symbols of protection or decorative embellishment in domestic and sacred settings. Size: 1.3" W x 2.3" H (3.3 cm x 5.8 cm); 3" H (7.6 cm) on included custom stand.
The putto-like form also recalls funerary imagery, where youthful attendants were shown guiding souls to the afterlife. This example, though modest in scale, captures the vitality of Roman bronze work: the head slightly tilted, the contrapposto stance imparting grace, and the surface enriched by traces of gilding. It would once have shone in domestic or ritual use, its small size making it suitable for placement among household shrines or personal collections.
Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired before 2000
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#196571
- Condition: Possibly missing wings. Surface wear commensurate with age with softening of detail. Otherwise, very nice with liberal remains of gilding.
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