Description:

Imperial Roman Period, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. An exceptional Roman marble sarcophagus, carved in high relief on three sides with finely detailed garland swags, theatrical masks, and bucrania (ox skulls) — all iconic symbols of Roman religious and commemorative architecture. Suspended garlands of fruit and leaves curve elegantly between projecting bucrania, their ends knotted beneath large, stylized masks or portrait busts of divinities or idealized figures, each framed by fan-like hair and cascading curls. The motifs reflect a deeply Roman visual tradition where agricultural abundance, sacrifice, and ritual celebration are fused in architectural decoration — especially in altars, tomb monuments, and temple precincts. Size: 27" L x 18" W x 15" H (68.6 cm x 45.7 cm x 38.1 cm)

The combination of bucrania and garlands evokes the Roman concept of pax deorum (peace of the gods), commonly used in altars dedicated to domestic or civic deities. The artistry and proportions suggest this was part of a formal religious setting or a high-status commemorative monument.

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

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#195092

  • Condition: Light surface weathering; minor chipping to corners and edges; overall exceptionally preserved with full decorative program intact.

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

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$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