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. The eagle was deeply connected with Roman military, since it was a symbol of pride, strength and victory. The eagle, or aquila in Latin, was also the official emblem of Rome and the Roman Empire. Furthermore, the animal was also associated with the god Jupiter, the chief deity in the Roman pantheon.
For more information about the meanings of animals in Roman art, see our relevant blog post: Animal Symbolism in Roman Art.
