** A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this artwork will be donated to the Anthony Quinn Foundation, whose mission is to advocate for the important role arts education plays in personal development and in the overall improvement of social, economic and cultural systems. Learn more at aqfoundation.org **

Europe, Italy, ca. 20th century CE. A stunning lead alloy horse depicted rearing on both hind legs. Rendered in the Classical style of Ancient Rome, the majestic stallion raises its head, displaying a naturalistic visage with a lengthy, round snout, delineated nostrils, petite eyes, and an arched brow. Perky ears sit atop the head, while a wavy mane extends down the ancient animal's thick neck. The muscular back of the noble steed is draped with an animal hide, incised with undulating striations to represent fur. Note the rich green patina that has been added to the surface, imbuing the figure with an elegant presentation reminiscent of the Ancient World. Size: 11.3" L x 2.8" W x 11.9" H (28.7 cm x 7.1 cm x 30.2 cm); 14.5" H (36.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Although equestrian statues of emperors were common sights in ancient Rome (historic sources suggest there were at least 22 of these so-called "great horses" or equi magni), few other than the Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius (ca. 173 to 176 CE) have survived. Such horse and rider statues were political devices revering the emperor and his military and civic achievements, strategically placed in the empire to pay homage to his excellency. The likenesses of these statues were also copied on coins in order to widely disseminate imagery honoring specific emperors.

Provenance: ex-private collection of actor Anthony Quinn and his wife Katherine, Bristol, Rhode Island, USA acquired prior to 2000

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#169266

Repaired from 2 pieces with break line visible, nail on back, and restoration on underside. Missing proper left front leg and lower half of right front leg. Losses to back, posterior, and underside. Expected nicks, abrasions, and softening of detail, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with rich patina.