Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A beautifully preserved cast bronze chariot attachment in the form of a seated, nude male child, shown in a lifelike relaxed pose, holding a branch or something similar in one hand so that it is resting on one knee. The child is turned slightly towards the viewer, with deep eyes that may have once had inlays of precious metal. The figure sits upon a disc-like base, with one leg resting over the other and projecting off the edge of the disc. Below the disc is a thick, square-edged loop for attachment. Who is this child? Representations of children in ancient Rome are often interpreted as Cupid, god of love, but this figure lacks his characteristic wings. Perhaps this was just a beloved son of the person who commissioned the piece. Size: 2.8" W x 3.45" H (7.1 cm x 8.8 cm); 3.7" H (9.4 cm) on included custom stand.
Roman chariots were not used for warfare, but instead in circuses and in triumphal processions. As a result, elaborate finials like these became de rigeur, lending a unique look to each chariot, where they were mounted on posts above each wheel. The carriage was supported by leather straps wrapped around the shaft and guided by the projecting arms. This absorbed the vibrations of the wooden wheels, making the ride smoother. Imagine the sun flashing off of the dark, polished bronze that this would have been when made!
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Richard Wagner collection, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA, acquired in the 1960s
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#137293
Condition
Intact, with light surface wear commensurate with age. Pretty uniform dark green patina and nicely preserved details.