Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 4th century CE. A fine, leaded-bronze hasp in the form of a reclining lion. The majestic creature lays with his front paws folded before him as he gazes to his right presenting ovoid eyes, a protruding snout, and an incised mouth, all envelope by a thick mane and capped with a pair of round ears. His slender tail rests on his haunches. A pair of loops are featured below and behind him, which would have allowed the ancient animal to function as part of a fastening for a door or lid. Size: 2.4" L x 1.3" H (6.1 cm x 3.3 cm)
An identical lion hasp can be found at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art under accession number M.76.97.942.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance),
we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#134682
Condition
Back loop is filled with earthen encrustation which impedes function. Expected light abrasions and softening of detail, commensurate with age and use. Otherwise, intact and excellent with gorgeous patina and rich earthen deposits.