Roman Bronze Statuette of a Bearded Male

**Originally Listed At $2500**

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. Finely cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) process, a seated bronze bearded male figure with his left arm raised, pointing his index finger toward the sky, as his right leg is extended outward, both feet touching a rectangular platform. The piece is hollow cast and was probably intended to fit a vessel or piece of furniture. He wears an ample himation, the folds of its fabric enveloping his legs and draping over his left shoulder and looks out with an expressive visage framed by a thick, wavy, centrally-parted coiffure. Size: 5.75" H (14.6 cm); 5.875" H (14.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Just who does this figure represent? Could it be Jupiter/Zeus, god of the sky, pointing toward the celestial realm? Or Poseidon/Neptune, god of the sea? Was he holding a thunderbolt or a trident? Regardless of his identity, the figure most likely represented an Olympian god, and the skillful rendering of his muscular chest, draped garments, as well as the suggestion of motion are undeniable.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#133170
Condition Report: Loss to right arm. Minor casting flaws. A small perforation to back of head and the center of his back. Amazing rich patina of dark and light green hues.