Roman Leaded Bronze Lion Handle w/ Ring

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A wonderful example of a leaded-bronze handle cast in high relief with the stylized head of a lion. The feline countenance features a protruding snout with a delineated nose, bared fangs within the gaping mouth, almond-shaped eyes beneath sweeping brows, and a wild mane around its head; dozens of petite pecking marks around the visage are suggestive of fur. Within the creature's mouth is a circular ring - used either as a handle or a door knocker - and remains of 3 iron rivets visible around the periphery indicate how this handle would have attached to a larger object like a chest, trunk, or door. Thick layers of green and brown patina have formed across both the handle and ring. Size: 4.5" W x 5.7" H (11.4 cm x 14.5 cm); 6.875" H (17.5 cm) on included custom stand.

In the classical world, lions symbolized power, wealth, and might. They were famously featured in many ancient myths, perhaps most famous being that of Hercules (Herakles) slaying the Nemean Lion for his first labor. The fur of the Nemean Lion was believed to be impenetrable to attacks since, according to legend, it was made of gold and its claws were far sharper than any man-made blade and possessed the power to cleanly slice through even the toughest of armor. In the end, however, Hercules defeated the lion by strangling it to death and claimed its pelt as a trophy of the monumental achievement.

Provenance: ex-private New York City, New York, USA collection, before 2010

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#169090
Condition Report: Front of lion face and ring have been professionally cleaned. Abrasions and softening to finer details on lion's face, with slight bending to overall form of ring and peripheries around face, one stable fissure along periphery on upper right side, and oxidation to 3 iron rivets, otherwise intact and excellent. Great patina throughout.