Lot 952

Description

Animal figure that was certainly part of a group of figures with Dionysos and possibly a Silenus, after the example of marble groups such as those from Piacenza (Emilia-Romagna) or the Villa of Pozzuoli near Naples. The body hollow-cast but with thick walls. On the left inner side of the haunches, a clamp, possibly used to fix the panther on a range. Anatomical details of the animal figure lovingly worked: eyes, ears, nose and open mouth well-proportioned and naturalistically rendered, as are the paws and limbs. The tail curves around the right flank of the haunches. The seated panther stretches its neck and head upwards, the View of the slightly turned head directed towards the missing Dionysos. The left paw raised playfully or in a begging gesture. The pattern of the coat rendered by punched ring-and-dot motifs. Beautiful dark green Patina, partially with reddish oxide spots and deposits. Height 7.7 cm. Length 6 cm. Charming animal sculpture from a bronze group, representing a reflection of great art for the domestic use of an upper-class Roman household. Acquired by the current owner at Hermann Historica in November 2024 in Auction 102, lot 4096. Previously Rhenish private collection J.K. (estate). CULTURAL ASSET!

Provenance: Acquired by the current owner at Hermann Historica in November 2024 in Auction 102, lot 4096. Previously Rhenish private collection J.K. (estate). Acquired in 2014 from the Kölner Münzkabinett Tyll Kroha (Auction 102, lot 1410). Invoice and copy of the page from the auction catalogue with illustration available.

Condition: II Questions about the lot?