Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A fine, hollow-cast bronze example of a patera handle terminating in the head of a ram. The handle is fluted, resembling a horizontal column, and the ram terminal is nicely detailed with dramatic, curled horns, a long muzzle, stipling representing fur, and naturalistic facial features. The patera was used for serving drinks and food at banquets, or for carrying libations used in religious ceremonies and funerals. High-quality examples like this one often have either a ram or wolf head finial on their handles. By Roman times, the ram was already an ancient (with respect to the Romans) symbol of virility and masculinity, and Mercury (Greek Hermes), the god of commerce and communication, was often accompanied by a ram to symbolize fertility. Size: 5.5" L x 2" W (14 cm x 5.1 cm); 4.8" H (12.2 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Mark and Lottie S. collection, Hartsdale, New York, USA; ex-Monsignore DeCiccio collection, Naples, Italy, 1950

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#179551

This is a handle from a larger vessel. Losses to verso attachment panel as shown. Minor abrasions to handle and ram head, with light softening to some finer details. Light earthen deposits and fabulous patina throughout.