Ancient Roman Bronze Eagle Statuette

$537.08

An Ancient Roman bronze statuette of an eagle with closed wings, perched on a five-stepped pyramid. The bird is portrayed in a naturalistic manner, with much attention given to the execution of its anatomical features. Its plumage is finely detailed and some definition is still visible to the eyes. This particular composition is characteristic of the votive bronzes of the cult of Jupiter Dolichenus, an incarnation of Jupiter whose worship was widespread among the Roman legions.

Date: Circa 1st – 2nd century AD
Provenance: From a Surrey gentleman's collection (D.G.), purchased on the London Art market from ADA member, 1990s - onwards.
Condition: Fine condition. The item is intact and displays patina on the surface.

SOLD

SKU: MG-284 Category: Tags: , , ,

Bronze statuettes were popular across the Roman Empire, usually modelled in the shape of gods, goddesses and animals. Such statuettes could have been part of private households or placed in temples as votive offerings. Interestingly, during the Roman Empire, the Asia Minor region was famous for its cast metal sculptures. In both Greek and Roman societies, the aquila (eagle) was considered a powerful symbol, an animal that was an attribute of embodiment of Zeus and Jupiter. For any Roman legion, an eagle standard was of paramount significance, representing the emblem of Rome and the Roman Empire, a symbol of pride, strength and victory.

Weight 30.8 g
Dimensions W 2.5 x H 5 cm
Culture

Region

Metal