Roman Bronze Figure of Hercules

2ND-3RD CENTURY A.D.

3 3/8 in. (115 grams, 86 mm).

Depicted nude in a contrapposto stance with the weight on his left leg, holding a club in the crook of his left hand with a lion-skin draped over the arm, and a cup in his right hand.

Provenance

Acquired in the 1980s.
Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent.
Private collection, since the late 1990s.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12615-234681.

Literature

Cf. Rolland, H., Bronzes Antiques de Haute Provence, Paris, 1965, item 105, for the type.

Footnotes

The statuette, perhaps of Gallo-Roman origin, was likely part of a private lararium. It is a provincial work, but well-proportioned. Unlike other statuettes of this type, Hercules is beardless. The upper part of the head was probably covered by a laurel crown.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

LOT 0169