Lot 24B
Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A large and impressive panel from a lead sarcophagus with an extensive cast relief iconographic and decorative program. At the top, the cornice presents a repeated laurel branch motif inspired by the actual garlands and flowers used to decorate tombs and altars, framed by two finely delineated borders of cable molding or ropework. Beneath this is a frieze comprised of two rectangular panels (similar to metopes though without triglyphs between) separated via a variant of a Corinthian column with twisted shafts and acanthus leafed capitals. The left-most panel features a central winged female sphinx surrounded by grape and laurel leaf elements. The sphinx - having a human head and breasts, legs and paws of a lion and wings of a bird -is generally associated with protecting royal tombs and religious temples, this association stemming from the Greek form that guarded the entrance to Thebes, only allowing those who could solve the infamous riddle to pass. On the right is a roundel featuring the head of Medusa, a member of the Gorgon familiy, one of three mythological sisters of the ancient Greek world whose hideous visages embodied the most horrifying aspects of death and the supernatural, with wide open eyes, a pointy protruding nose, a clefted chin, and living venemous snakes in place of hair. Known for their potent gazes that could turn one to stone, Gorgons were favored as sarcophagi and architectural ornaments, because it was believed that their visages would protect those within. Above the head of Medusa are two frolicking dolphins, associated with the heavens (this interpretation rooted in the myth of Salacia - see below), and to the left and right are vertical rows of repeated roundels containing fruits and flowers. A very large Roman sarcophagus panel, replete with expert technique, fine artistry, and meaningful symbolic iconography, most likely created for the sarcophagus of an elite Roman citizen. Custom museum-quality stand. Size: 23.25" L x 12.875" H (59.1 cm x 32.7 cm); 24.75" L x 15.75" H (62.9 cm x 40 cm) with stand
For context on the Roman practice of burying the deceased in sarcophagi: Prior to the 2nd century, Romans generally cremated their dead, but in the second century, inspired by the Greek and Etruscan practice of using sarcophagi, the Romans too began to place their dead in sarcophagi. This trend spread rapidly throughout the Roman Empire. In the western part of the Empire, sarcophagi were placed inside a mausoleum against a wall or in a niche. Because of this arrangement, decorated panels were only featured upon the front and short sides.
For context on dolphins in Roman iconography: The Myth of Salacia is a story about the god Neptune who wanted to marry Salacia, but sadly, she was mesmerized by another suitor. The grieving Neptune decided to send a dolphin to find the fair Salacia and convince her to marry the Great King of the Deep. When Salacia agreed, Neptune was elated and in turn decided to reward the dolphin with a place in the heavens. Hence, dolphins symbolize the celestial realm and are interpreted as benevolent messengers from the gods.
Provenance: Ex-Private Orange County, CA collection
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#118164
- Condition: A section with losses to lower end, sides, and upper periphery as shown. Some bending and cracking, particularly at peripheries. Surface encrustation, wear, and abrasions as shown.
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Artemis Fine Arts
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