RARE ROMAN BRONZE LEGIONARY EAGLE FIGURINE WITH SILVER INLAID EYES

Ca. 1st - 3rd century AD.
A bronze free standing figurine of an eagle perched atop a flat and integral base. The body of the eagle is meticulously detailed with incised feathers, and its wings are gracefully folded. The head is turned to the right, featuring a down-curved beak and large inlaid eyes. The eagle is the emblem of the Roman legion, known as the "aquila". In Roman military tradition, the aquila served as a sacred emblem and rallying point for the legionnaires. It was a symbol of honour and loyalty, representing the strength and power of the Roman Empire. The aquila was carried into battle and held a central role in various ceremonies within the legion. Its loss in battle was considered a grave dishonour, and its recovery was a matter of great importance to the legion.
Size: 45mm x 30mm; Weight: 95g
Provenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.