Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. Cast by the cire perdue (lost wax) process, this is heavy leaded bronze bust covered with a thick layer of gilt depicting Mars (Ares), god of warfare as well as an agricultural guardian, donning a characteristically plumed neo-Attic helmet upon his clean-shaven handsome face and a cuirass with strap across the chest. His head is angled toward the right, and his nicely delineated face peers into the distance. This item would have been attached to something decoratively, as the open, ovoid socket on its back shows. Size: 2.45" W x 4.5" H (6.2 cm x 11.4 cm); 5.3" H (13.5 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. Second in importance only to Jupiter, Mars was highly regarded as the chief military god of the Roman army.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-private Chicago, Illinois, USA collection, acquired in the 1990s; ex-Morris Pinto collection, New York, USA, acquired in the 1980s
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#146605
Condition
Light surface wear commensurate with age, including small scratches, chips, and dings. Gilding is in very fine condition with much remaining.