Sculpture, "AVE CAESAR MORITURI TE SALUTANT" gladiatore - 67 cm - Bronze

Bronze patinated sculpture depicting a Roman gladiator standing, nude with loincloth, the left arm extended forward in the salute gesture to the emperor. The gladiator supports with his right hand a spear leaning against the body, while at his feet, on the base, a helmet with crest and relief detailing is placed. On the left flank a draped cloak, finely worked to imitate animal skin; the right leg wears a greave decorated with volutes, meanders and incised rosettes. At the octagonal base the Latin inscription is incised:

AVE CAESAR MORITURI TE SALUTANT

("Hail, Caesar, those who are about to die salute you")

Technical data

- Material: bronze with original patina intact, warm brown tones with golden reflections on surfaces in light
- Height: 67 cm
- Base: octagonal, in bronze, with incised inscription
- Conditions: beautiful original patina intact; presence of surface dust deposits in recessed areas (greave, helmet, base), easily removable with conservative cleaning

Provenance: Private collection, Italy.

Notes: A neoclassical taste model, typical of European decorative production from the Neapolitan and French area between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, inspired by gladiator subjects from the Grand Tour tradition. The sculpture bears no signatures or foundry marks; the chronological attribution is based on stylistic and technical casting characteristics.