Ancient Roman, Empire Bronze Dolphin figure - 13 cm
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 1,500 - € 1,800
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A Roman bronze dolphin applique from the Imperial period (1st–3rd century AD), 13 cm long, in good condition, originally from a Belgian private collection and acquired in 2026 in the Netherlands from Casa de subastas.
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Description from the seller
Roman Bronze Dolphin Applique, Roman Empire, 1st to 3rd Century AD
A finely cast Roman bronze dolphin applique depicting the sacred marine creature in a graceful and highly stylized form. The elongated body, rounded head, and bifurcated tail reflect the artistic conventions commonly employed in Roman decorative bronzes. Dolphins were among the most significant marine symbols of the Roman world, associated with Neptune, safe navigation, prosperity, and divine protection. Decorative fittings of this type were used on furniture, chests, ceremonial objects, vehicles, or architectural elements throughout the Empire. The piece exhibits an attractive ancient green and brown patina with areas of mineral encrustation, enhancing both its archaeological character and aesthetic appeal. An elegant and evocative example of Roman bronze craftsmanship.
Material: Bronze
Dimensions: 13 cm length
Provenance:
Acquired in Netherlands from a Belgian private collection formed during the 1990s.
All items come with CoA
Roman Bronze Dolphin Applique, Roman Empire, 1st to 3rd Century AD
A finely cast Roman bronze dolphin applique depicting the sacred marine creature in a graceful and highly stylized form. The elongated body, rounded head, and bifurcated tail reflect the artistic conventions commonly employed in Roman decorative bronzes. Dolphins were among the most significant marine symbols of the Roman world, associated with Neptune, safe navigation, prosperity, and divine protection. Decorative fittings of this type were used on furniture, chests, ceremonial objects, vehicles, or architectural elements throughout the Empire. The piece exhibits an attractive ancient green and brown patina with areas of mineral encrustation, enhancing both its archaeological character and aesthetic appeal. An elegant and evocative example of Roman bronze craftsmanship.
Material: Bronze
Dimensions: 13 cm length
Provenance:
Acquired in Netherlands from a Belgian private collection formed during the 1990s.
All items come with CoA
Details
Culture
Ancient Roman, Empire
Century/timeframe
1st to 3rd Century AD
Name of object
Dolphin figure
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
2026
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Netherlands
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Height
13 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
1990
Previous owner - country acquired from
Belgium
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
