Ancient Roman, Empire Bronze Bust with a conical headdress – Representation of the god Attis. 1st–3rd centuries A.D. - 30 mm
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€ 1
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Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 380 - € 450
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Description from the seller
Bronze smoothed bust with a conical headdress – Representation of the god Attis. 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Culture: Roman,
Dating proposed: 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Material: Cast bronze.
Measurements: 30 × 16 × 10 mm.
Interesting and expressive small bronze bust of Roman tradition, identifiable with Attis, a Phrygian deity linked to the cult of Cybele, the Great Mother of the gods.
The figure represents a male character with an elongated face, prominent nose, almond-shaped eyes, and marked brows, topped with an extraordinary conical headdress of pronounced vertical development.
The face features a schematic yet vigorous modeling, with individualized traits that give the piece notable sculptural personality. The head rests on a base formed by the shoulders, modeled in a simplified manner.
The representation recalls the small busts and votive appliques made in bronze during the Roman Empire, in which Oriental deities were frequently identified by their characteristic headdresses.
Attis, a Phrygian-origin deity associated with the cycle of vegetation, death, and rebirth, gained considerable diffusion in the Roman world through his association with the cult of Cybele.
Notably, its attractive archaeological patina, with deep green tones, olive green, and abundant earthy concretions in golden ochre, enhances the volume of its facial features.
Condition: Good visual integrity of the head and shoulders. It shows surface wear, earthy deposits, and patina alterations. The tip of the headdress appears flattened.
A singular piece of small ancient sculpture, particularly attractive for the expressiveness of its face, the peculiarity of its headdress, and its possible link with the Oriental cults of the Roman Empire.
Bronze smoothed bust with a conical headdress – Representation of the god Attis. 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Culture: Roman,
Dating proposed: 1st–3rd centuries AD.
Material: Cast bronze.
Measurements: 30 × 16 × 10 mm.
Interesting and expressive small bronze bust of Roman tradition, identifiable with Attis, a Phrygian deity linked to the cult of Cybele, the Great Mother of the gods.
The figure represents a male character with an elongated face, prominent nose, almond-shaped eyes, and marked brows, topped with an extraordinary conical headdress of pronounced vertical development.
The face features a schematic yet vigorous modeling, with individualized traits that give the piece notable sculptural personality. The head rests on a base formed by the shoulders, modeled in a simplified manner.
The representation recalls the small busts and votive appliques made in bronze during the Roman Empire, in which Oriental deities were frequently identified by their characteristic headdresses.
Attis, a Phrygian-origin deity associated with the cycle of vegetation, death, and rebirth, gained considerable diffusion in the Roman world through his association with the cult of Cybele.
Notably, its attractive archaeological patina, with deep green tones, olive green, and abundant earthy concretions in golden ochre, enhances the volume of its facial features.
Condition: Good visual integrity of the head and shoulders. It shows surface wear, earthy deposits, and patina alterations. The tip of the headdress appears flattened.
A singular piece of small ancient sculpture, particularly attractive for the expressiveness of its face, the peculiarity of its headdress, and its possible link with the Oriental cults of the Roman Empire.
Details
Culture
Ancient Roman, Empire
Century/timeframe
S I- IV DC
Name of object
Bust with a conical headdress – Representation of the god Attis. 1st–3rd centuries A.D.
Acquired from
Gallery / Antique dealer
Year acquired
1960
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Spain
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Gallery / Antique dealer
Height
30 mm
Previous owner - year acquired
1950
Width
16 mm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Spain
Depth
10 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.
