Description:

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A wonderful bronze handle cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) process, perhaps intended for a hydria, with two duck heads delineated in high relief - their ovoid, flat bodies below with an opening between them. In addition, a central fluted grip that is decorated with billowing leafy fronds - their veins and leaves finely delineated - which flank a central tiered spindle-like ornament - arches between the ducks. Interestingly, birds were domesticated pets, almost as popular as dogs among the ancient Romans according to British art historian and archaeologist Sir John Beazley best known for classifying Attic vases. Size: 8.25" W x 4.875" H (21 cm x 12.4 cm); 6.5" H (16.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Dere Family Collection, NYC, NY acquired pre-1980.

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#157827

  • Condition: Small loss to lower body of the right proper duck and minute nick to the periphery of the body of the other duck. Otherwise intact and excellent with wonderful patina.

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September 10, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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