Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 3rd century CE. A finely carved marble lion-headed spout, likely from an ancient fountain, with wonderful deep drilling characteristic of the 3rd century that results in dramatic light and shadow effects - similar to the carving technique for sarcophagi of this period. One cannot help but appreciate the fierce countenance of this wild feline, with its deep-set leering eyes, furrowed brow, pronounced muzzle, and open mouth that exposes a lagging tongue - this expressive visage crowned by an elaborately delineated wavy mane. The sculptor who made this piece may have been inspired by lions at the Roman Forum or in an amphitheater local to his area. A wonderful piece replete with superb technique and expression. Just imagine the ancients walking through a villa garden and passing a lovely fountain as water trickled and flowed from the mouth of this noble beast. Size: 11.8" W x 10.3" H (30 cm x 26.2 cm); 14.8" H (37.6 cm) on included custom stand.

In the classical world, lions symbolized power, wealth, and might. They were famously featured in many ancient myths, perhaps the most famous being that of Hercules (Greek Herakles) slaying the Nemean lion for his first labor. The lion's fur was believed to be impenetrable to attacks since according to legend it was made of gold and its claws were far sharper than swords with the power to slice through armor. In the end, Hercules defeated the lion by strangling it and wore its skin.

Lions were also favorite iconography for buildings, coins, and statues. Examples include the Lion Gate to the Citadel of Mycenae, the Terrace of the Lions on the island of Delos, and the lion hunt mosaic from Pella featuring Alexander engaged in a lion hunt. Of course, lions were also used in the Roman arenas where they would fight other animals, such as tigers and bears.

Provenance: private Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA collection; ex-Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA, September 26th, 2019, lot 77A; ex-East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010; ex-Vincent Gorda collection (1897 to 1979) thence by descent

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#171650

Fragment of a larger piece. Expected surface wear commensurate with age. Normal chips and minor losses to high-pointed areas and peripheries. Deposits with areas of encrustation grace the surface. Otherwise, excellent with collection labels on verso.