Lot 187
A large silver plate, Augsburg, Heinrich Mannlich (Master 1658-1698), probably 1670-74
Works of Art, Antiquities & Ancient Art | A109kua | Live auction | 1190 Lots
Description
Silver, remains of gilding. Heavily embossed decor. Three figures in a landscape setting in the mirror. Curved flag with four medallions featuring Baroquised busts of women of the Flavian imperial house. 1) Julia Titi (daughter of Emperor Titus), 2) Domitia Longina (wife of Emperor Domitian, brother of Titus and his successor to the throne), 3) Flavia Domitilla (the Younger), daughter of Flavia Domitilla the Elder, wife of Emperor Vespasian, father of Titus and Domitian, and 4) Annia Aurelia Faustina was the third wife of the Roman Emperor Elagabalus. Framed by four eagles and rich foliage. Outermost border with tremolo engraving, slightly worn assay mark and maker's mark “HM”. Dimensions: 34.5 x 40.5 cm, weight: 593 gr – cf. Seling vol. 3, no. 1613 – The depiction in the mirror may show Domitilla the Younger on the left, and her husband Titus Flavius Clemens (grand-nephew of Emperor Vespasian) on the right. Domitilla appears to be wearing a veil at the back (bestowed by Pope Clemens I; an episode from a hagiographic legend surrounding Domitilla). The figure in the centre may be a Jew or Christian, to whom Domitilla and her husband were, according to legend, very devoted.Condition: I - II Questions about the lot?
