Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 4th to 5th century CE. A wonderful inlay, likely from a casket, exhibiting a rectangular shape and convex face skillfully hand-carved from the bone of an ungulate to present the form of a soldier in high relief. The ancient figure is shown standing contrapposto as he holds a spear with his left hand and a shield in his right. Wearing only a small cloak draped along his shoulders, his mostly nude body is slim and muscular. His round face exhibits a minimalist visage with slender eyes, a broad nose, and a slightly open mouth, all capped by a short, thick coiffure. Size: 2.1" W x 5.3" H (5.3 cm x 13.5 cm); 5.8" H (14.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Cheshire, England collection, acquired in the 1980s to 1990s

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#167964

Repaired from at least 3 pieces with break lines on verso visible and very light restoration over break lines on obverse. Some expected nicks and abrasions, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice patina.