Roman Bronze Head of an Emperor

拍品描述

2nd century A.D. Hollow-formed with long neck, abundant thick hair and beard, broad mouth; probably intended to represent an emperor. Cf. a bronze statue of Hadrian from the Camp of the Sixth Roman Legion in Tel Shalem, 117–138 AD, now in the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, in D'Amato-Negin, Roman Decorated armour, 2017, p.107, fig.103. 440 grams, 10 cm (4 in.). (For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.) Acquired by a Swiss family in the mid-1980s to late 1990s, thence by descent. Private collection, Switzerland, since the late 1990s. The portrait seems to be a provincial bronze representing Hadrian, apparently aged around 30, recognisable from his incipient beard, moustache and distinctive physiognomy. However, the portrait is in an extremely provincial style, exemplified by the wide spacing of the eyes. The beard is lightly incised, and the highly stylised curls around the front of the head give way to simple incised locks on the back. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.

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