Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. Skillfully cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) process, a bronze lamp cover used to enclose the top of an ornate bronze lamp. The lyre-shaped cover has a rounded face with four nubbin-shaped lateral protrusions, a small curved handle on the lower left side, and a scalloped bottom periphery with a knobbed tip. Depicted in low-relief is a striking portrayal of the young mythical hero Hercules (Greek Herakles) standing nude while leaning on an enormous club. Shown in a relaxed pose with his right leg crossed over his left, he looks over his right shoulder while holding a small branch aloft in his left hand. A wonderful rendering of Hercules displaying the ancient artist's strong interest in delineating physiognomy and movement of his heroic yet human form. Size: 1.75" W x 2.5" H (4.4 cm x 6.4 cm).

Provenance: private New York, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#134563

Small chip to underside of lid above Hercules' head, and loss to curved element near figure's right foot. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, slight bending to overall form, light roughness across peripheries and verso, and fading to low-relief imagery. Light earthen deposits and lovely green patina throughout.