Ancient Roman, Empire Bronze Large Roman Bronze Attachment / Applique of Silenus
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Large Roman bronze attachment / applique of Silenus, an original 2nd–3rd century AD piece, in excellent condition, weighing 183.60 g and measuring 105.7 × 70.5 mm; from a private European collection.
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Description from the seller
Large Roman Bronze Attachment / Applique of Silenus
Roman Imperial Period, circa 2nd–3rd century AD
Weight: 183.60 g
Dimensions: 105.7 x 70.5 mm
From a Private European Collection
An exceptionally rare and unusually large Roman cast bronze attachment depicting the frontal head of Silenus, the aged companion and tutor of Dionysus (Roman Bacchus).
The expressive face is rendered in bold relief, with large almond-shaped eyes beneath pronounced brows, broad cheeks and a prominent moustache. Particularly striking is the magnificent long beard, arranged symmetrically in numerous deeply engraved, flowing locks.
Above the forehead is an elaborate ornamented band, surmounted by a massive integral suspension or attachment loop. This remarkable construction indicates that the piece originally formed part of a larger functional or decorative object, possibly a prestigious bronze vessel, furnishing or related luxury object.
Silenus and other members of the Dionysiac entourage were popular subjects in Roman decorative art and were frequently employed as bronze attachments. Comparable Roman Silenus masks are known from vessels and furnishings, sometimes incorporating suspension loops for handles or attachment. However, the present example is particularly remarkable for its exceptional size, substantial weight and unusually prominent integral loop.
At 105.7 mm in height and weighing 183.60 g, it considerably exceeds the dimensions of many surviving Roman bronze Silenus attachments. No exact parallel for this unusually large and distinctive form has presently been identified; apparently unpublished in this particular variant.
The surface preserves an attractive ancient green and brown patina with earthen deposits. The deeply engraved facial features and elaborate beard remain remarkably well defined, giving the piece an imposing and highly decorative appearance.
An extremely rare and impressive variant of a Roman Dionysiac bronze attachment, distinguished by its monumental dimensions, unusual construction and exceptionally strong visual presence.
Comparanda: Christie's, Roman Bronze Silenus Mask Applique, circa 1st century AD, H. 10.2 cm. Hammer price USD 7'767.00 on 8th June 2004.
I prove that the lot was obtained legally , provenance statement seen by Catawiki
Important information. I guarantee that I am entitled to ship this lot.
I will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged.
I will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days.
Large Roman Bronze Attachment / Applique of Silenus
Roman Imperial Period, circa 2nd–3rd century AD
Weight: 183.60 g
Dimensions: 105.7 x 70.5 mm
From a Private European Collection
An exceptionally rare and unusually large Roman cast bronze attachment depicting the frontal head of Silenus, the aged companion and tutor of Dionysus (Roman Bacchus).
The expressive face is rendered in bold relief, with large almond-shaped eyes beneath pronounced brows, broad cheeks and a prominent moustache. Particularly striking is the magnificent long beard, arranged symmetrically in numerous deeply engraved, flowing locks.
Above the forehead is an elaborate ornamented band, surmounted by a massive integral suspension or attachment loop. This remarkable construction indicates that the piece originally formed part of a larger functional or decorative object, possibly a prestigious bronze vessel, furnishing or related luxury object.
Silenus and other members of the Dionysiac entourage were popular subjects in Roman decorative art and were frequently employed as bronze attachments. Comparable Roman Silenus masks are known from vessels and furnishings, sometimes incorporating suspension loops for handles or attachment. However, the present example is particularly remarkable for its exceptional size, substantial weight and unusually prominent integral loop.
At 105.7 mm in height and weighing 183.60 g, it considerably exceeds the dimensions of many surviving Roman bronze Silenus attachments. No exact parallel for this unusually large and distinctive form has presently been identified; apparently unpublished in this particular variant.
The surface preserves an attractive ancient green and brown patina with earthen deposits. The deeply engraved facial features and elaborate beard remain remarkably well defined, giving the piece an imposing and highly decorative appearance.
An extremely rare and impressive variant of a Roman Dionysiac bronze attachment, distinguished by its monumental dimensions, unusual construction and exceptionally strong visual presence.
Comparanda: Christie's, Roman Bronze Silenus Mask Applique, circa 1st century AD, H. 10.2 cm. Hammer price USD 7'767.00 on 8th June 2004.
I prove that the lot was obtained legally , provenance statement seen by Catawiki
Important information. I guarantee that I am entitled to ship this lot.
I will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged.
I will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days.
Details
Culture
Ancient Roman, Empire
Century/timeframe
circa 2nd–3rd century AD
Name of object
Large Roman Bronze Attachment / Applique of Silenus
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2025
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Germany
Condition
Excellent
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Previous owner - country acquired from
Netherlands
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
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.
