Description:

Roman, Imperial period, ca. 2nd century CE. A fascinating bronze foot attachment from a magnificent piece of Roman furniture. The foot is composed of a protome bust of Bacchus (Dionysus) wearing an animal skin - probably that of a leopard. He emerges dramatically from foliage, perched atop a massive clawed feline paw that stands on a hexagonal plinth. Behind his head is a rectangular socket for attachment. Early portrayals of Bacchus show him with a full beard, but by the 2nd century CE, Roman artists started depicting him as a youth, with a smooth face, as he is here. Size: 2.7" W x 6.95" H (6.9 cm x 17.7 cm); 10.2" H (25.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Bacchus, patron of a highly sexualized mystery cult, was often depicted wearing a leopard skin as he is here and/or riding a leopard - the leopard was a symbol of virility. The cult of Bacchus was hugely popular in ancient Rome, and symbols of the god were commonly used to decorate domestic items - signifying the freedom created by wine, music, and ecstatic dance.

This item hammered for GBP 1,875 ($2,407) at Bonhams, London, Knightsbridge Antiquities Auction (May 8, 2013, lot 166): https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/20667/lot/166/?category=results&length=90&page=2

Provenance: private Davis collection, Houston, Texas, USA; ex-Bonhams, London, Knightsbridge Antiquities Auction (May 8, 2013, lot 166); ex-Joseph Klein collection, New York, New York, USA, formed between 1941 and 1980, thence by descent

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#138780

  • Condition: Front side of base is partially lost; otherwise in excellent condition with a rich, dark green patina and well-preserved details.

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October 11, 2018 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000