Published Roman Leaded Bronze Priest - ex Sotheby's

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. Expertly cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) method, a leaded bronze figure of an elderly priest, standing with his left leg slightly advanced, carrying a casket in his left hand, holding out his right hand in a dramatic fashion, and donning a himation wrapped over one shoulder and also covering his head which presents with nice modeling of drapery folds to lend a dynamic quality of movement and volume to the piece. The priest's visage presents with a fringe of wavy bangs over his almond-shaped eyes, a surprisingly petite nose, and a bushy mustache and beard framing his lips. Size: 3.25" H (8.3 cm); 4.25" H (10.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Published: J. Eisenberg, Art of the Ancient World, vol IV (1985), no. 305

On loan to Michigan State University; Ohio State University; Picker Art Gallery, Colgate University; Fitchburg Art Museum - 1985 to 2016.

Provenance: R.B. collection, W. Bloomfield, Michigan, USA; acquired from Royal Athena in October 1985; ex Sotheby's London, 9 December 1984 - lot 485

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#160099
Condition Report: Minute loss to tip of thumb on extended hand. Abraded surface/encrusted patina on right leg. Otherwise intact and excellent with gorgeous green patina. Royal Athena label on underside of wooden spool-shaped base.