Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A finely cast Roman bronze Balsamarium, sculpted in the form of a youthful male head, possibly representing Dionysus (Bacchus) or a victorious youth, as suggested by the prominent laurel wreath that crowns the figure?s head. This detail, rendered in relief with crisply defined leaves wrapping around the forehead and temple, reflects a rich cultural symbolism in Roman society. The figure?s expressive facial features are masterfully modeled, with incised pupils once inlaid with silver pupils, traces still present per XRF testing. The flared lips, almond-shaped eyes, and thick curling hair contribute to the lifelike quality of the sculpture. Two integral suspension loops are affixed to the top of the head, through which a pair of rings remain attached?indicating the vessel was made to be hung or carried, likely as a container for precious oils or perfumes used in personal grooming or ritual practice. Size: 2.75" W x 4.25" H (7 cm x 10.8 cm)

Balsamaria were, as the name suggests, used for holding balsam, the resinous, sap-like product of many different plants, as well as the oil used by athletes to clean their skin. Balsamaria most often depict women's or satyr's heads, but some are more abstract, like this example. Cosmetics were as important to the ancient Romans as they are to us today, used by men and women, and with specialized equipment made for holding them. Often balsamaria were so important that they were buried with their owners and some, like one of a woman's head at the British Museum (1868,0601.3) were made exclusively to be placed into tombs with offerings rather than used by the living.

While not definitive, the presence of the laurel wreath does not exclude the possibility that this is an idealized or symbolic representation of an emperor, especially in ritual or commemorative use. A young emperor deified (such as Gaius Caligula, Nero in his youth, or Commodus as Hercules) could match both the age and iconography.

Ex Sotheby's, July 8, 1993, Lot 194 with stickers inside the hollow head.

Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 - 2010

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#195031

Missing lid, a few anticipated scuffs, lovely deep brown/ green patina.