Description:

Roman Empire, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A finely cast and selectively gilt bronze decorative mount depicting a Nubian youth, modeled with exceptional character and charm. The bust portrays a young boy with wide-set almond eyes, full cheeks, and a sensitive expression. His distinctive, tightly curled hair is rendered in a tessellated pattern, a Roman artistic convention used to represent African ethnic identity. He wears a draped tunic fastened at the neckline with a triangular clasp (fibula), and the figure terminates in elegant scrollwork, suggesting it was once affixed to a high-status object—likely a cauldron, furniture element, or chariot fitting. Traces of original gilding across the chest subtly gleam through the olive-green patina, emphasizing the high craftsmanship and prestige associated with this piece. Size: 4.25" H (10.8 cm)

Nubian figures were a favored motif in Roman decorative arts, symbolizing exoticism, servitude, or imperial reach. The survival of gilding on such a small and ancient bronze is especially rare.

Provenance: ex-private GP Collection, NY and Israel, acquired in the 1980s.

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#195468

  • Condition: Expected wear, else intact/excellent!

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August 7, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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