Description:

Roman Empire, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. A compelling fragment of a Roman marble relief carved in high relief with a striking tragic theater mask, its features exaggerated for dramatic effect: arched brows, wide staring eyes, and a gaping open mouth — the signature elements of masks used in classical theater to convey intense emotion and project sound in open-air performances. The mask is framed by stylized drapery or possibly a lion's mane-like surround, set against a roughly finished background. Above, elements of an architectural molding or frieze remain, suggesting this was once part of a decorative entablature or theater pediment. Size: 14" L x 6" W x 16" H (35.6 cm x 15.2 cm x 40.6 cm)

Masks like this were symbolic not only of entertainment and Dionysian revelry, but also of the duality of human emotion and the transformative power of art. In Roman visual culture, the tragic mask often stood as a symbol of cultured leisure, moral contemplation, or elite taste.

Provenance: x-private New York collection, USA, acquired 1980s to 1990s; ex-Fortuna Fine Arts, New York City, New York, USA

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.

#195094

  • Condition: Fragmentary; preserved with powerful facial features and architectural contours. Age-consistent surface wear and mineral accretions

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

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

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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