Ancient Roman, Empire Bronze Small anthropomorphic finial with a human head – 2nd–3rd centuries CE. - 17 mm (No reserve price)
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Current bid
€ 44
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 330 - € 400
 | €44 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €41 | |
| €3 | |
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Description from the seller
Bronze applique with a grotesque theatrical mask – 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Culture: Roman.
Reference period: Roman Empire, 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Material: Cast bronze.
Measurements: 17 × 19 × 8 mm.
Description for auction:
Extraordinary small bronze ornamental applique with a representation of an expressive grotesque theatrical mask, belonging to the artistic tradition of the Roman world.
The piece stands out for the expressive strength of its features, carefully modeled in high relief. It presents large almond-shaped eyes, a short and prominent nose, rounded cheeks, and a mouth with fleshy lips, slightly ajar, which gives the face a singular expression.
The head appears framed by abundant hair of wavy locks, with small lateral volumes that accentuate its sculptural character.
Theatrical masks, inspired by the Greek tradition, were a highly valued ornamental motif during the Roman Empire. Their representation extended to bronze objects, vessels, furniture and small decorative elements, reflecting the close relationship between theater, mythology and daily Roman life.
Especially attractive is the preservation of facial details despite its small dimensions, a testament to the skill of artisans specialized in small figurative pieces.
The surface shows a beautiful olive-green archaeological patina, with brown tones, ochre mineral deposits and encrustations that enhance the relief of the mask.
Conservation status: Good overall preservation, with features clearly recognizable, hair details visible, and an attractive superficial patina.
Bronze applique with a grotesque theatrical mask – 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Culture: Roman.
Reference period: Roman Empire, 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Material: Cast bronze.
Measurements: 17 × 19 × 8 mm.
Description for auction:
Extraordinary small bronze ornamental applique with a representation of an expressive grotesque theatrical mask, belonging to the artistic tradition of the Roman world.
The piece stands out for the expressive strength of its features, carefully modeled in high relief. It presents large almond-shaped eyes, a short and prominent nose, rounded cheeks, and a mouth with fleshy lips, slightly ajar, which gives the face a singular expression.
The head appears framed by abundant hair of wavy locks, with small lateral volumes that accentuate its sculptural character.
Theatrical masks, inspired by the Greek tradition, were a highly valued ornamental motif during the Roman Empire. Their representation extended to bronze objects, vessels, furniture and small decorative elements, reflecting the close relationship between theater, mythology and daily Roman life.
Especially attractive is the preservation of facial details despite its small dimensions, a testament to the skill of artisans specialized in small figurative pieces.
The surface shows a beautiful olive-green archaeological patina, with brown tones, ochre mineral deposits and encrustations that enhance the relief of the mask.
Conservation status: Good overall preservation, with features clearly recognizable, hair details visible, and an attractive superficial patina.
Details
Culture
Ancient Roman, Empire
Century/timeframe
S.II
Name of object
Small anthropomorphic finial with a human head – 2nd–3rd centuries CE.
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
1970
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Spain
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Gallery / Antique dealer
Height
17 mm
Previous owner - year acquired
1960
Width
19 mm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Spain
Depth
8 mm
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.
