Over Life-Size Gallo-Roman Limestone Head of an Athlete

3RD-4TH CENTURY A.D.

13 3/4 in. (16.35 kg total, 35 cm including stand).

With short hair, cut and combed in regular lines, furrowed brow and wide deep-set eyes, small fleshy mouth, intense and powerful expression; weather-worn surface; mounted on a later 18th century stand.

Provenance

Acquired in the 1930s.
From the family collection of Mr F. Morand, France.
From the M.J. collection, Wales, UK.

Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12070-217746.

Literature

Cf. Powell, T.G.E., The Art of Roman Gaul, London, 1961, fig.104.

Footnotes

The head shows a late Roman appearance in its features and hairstyle. The expression, the short thick neck and the style of the hair combined with the somewhat uncouth and forceful expression may indicate a local Gallo-Roman character.

CONDITION

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LOT 0136