Gallo-Roman Bronze Head of Mars / Ares, ex-Sotheby's

Gallo Roman, Gaul (a region that includes present day Northern Italy, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, most of Switzerland, parts of Netherlands, and Germany on west bank of the Rhine), Imperial Period, ca. 2nd century CE. A mesmerizing, solid cast bronze head of either Mars (Greek counterpart being Ares) or Minerva (Greek counterpart being Athena) presenting a beautiful visage comprised of wide open eyes, an aquiline nose, slightly parted lips, a knitted brow, and a centrally parted wavy coiffure with finely incised locks - all surmounted by a Corinthian helmet. The bust also shows remains of drapery on the shoulder. A finely modeled sculptural work with gorgeous, green patina that has developed over the ages. Size: 2.875" H (7.3 cm); 4.875" H (12.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Mars (Greek Ares) was the god of war - son to Jupiter and Juno (Greek Zeus and Hera) and one of the Twelve Olympians. His sister Minerva (Greek Athena) was the goddess of war. Whereas Mars/Ares traditionally represents the fiery, violent aspects of combat, his sister Minerva/Athena usually represents intellectual military strategy. The term Gallo-Roman refers to the Romanized culture of Gaul under the reign of the Roman Empire.

Provenance: private Florida, USA collection, acquired at Sotheby's, New York (December 12, 2014, lot 35); ex-Baudoin and Feuardent, Hotel Drouot, Paris, France (June 7th, 1922, no. 91. illustrated)

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#132054
Condition Report: A section from a larger work with losses to periphery of neckline/drapery on shoulder and verso. Minor divot to top of helmet.