Ancient Roman Bronze Votive Dove

Large Ancient Roman Solid Bronze Votive Dove of Venus (93.4 mm,)

​Culture/Region: Roman Empire

​Period: 1st - 3rd Century A.D.
​Material: Bronze (solid-cast)

​Dimensions: Length: 93.4 mm; Weight: 207 g

​Description:
A substantial and heavily cast ancient Roman bronze votive figurine depicting a standing dove. Measuring over 9 cm in length and weighing a solid 207 grams, this is a remarkably large example of a domestic votive bronze. The bird is modeled with folded wings featuring carefully incised linear decoration to denote feathers, and stands upon an integral, slightly flared pedestal base.
​In Roman religious tradition, the dove was intimately associated with Venus (Aphrodite), the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility. Figurines of this scale were typically dedicated in sanctuaries or permanently affixed to household shrines (lararia). Notably, the underside of the base clearly displays the original mounting point and ancient tool marks from its initial installation, providing excellent physical evidence of its history and manufacture.

​Condition:
Excellent, intact ancient condition. The bronze is enveloped in a thick, hard, and deeply mineralized dark patina (cuprite and malachite), confirming its authenticity and prolonged antiquity. No modern repairs or restorations. Mounted loosely on a modern clear display stand.

​Provenance:
Previously in a European private collection 1970