Roman, Imperial / Early Christian, ca. 3rd to 4th century CE. A magnificent marble fragment, skillfully carved in high relief to depict a man holding a ram; a motif known as Hermes Kriophoros or the Good Shepherd. Gazing to his right, the ancient figure is dressed in a belted tunic, carefully sculpted with intricate folds of cloth that cascade down his body, highlighting his slender physique. His naturalistic visage features a pair of generously lidded eyes with incised pupils beneath an arched brow, a broad nose with a low nasal bridge, a moustache, and plump lips, slightly parted as though in awe. A luscious mane of tight coils surrounds his head, forming his dense coiffure and bushy beard. In his right hand he grasps the legs of a ram, which he carries over his shoulders. The adorable animal also looks to the right, extending its head forward and presenting long, pointed horns and a rounded snout. The charming creature's posterior rests on the man's shoulder displaying a petite tail, as his smooth body stretches behind the shepherd's head. Size: 14.5" L x 8.25" W x 20.125" H (36.8 cm x 21 cm x 51.1 cm); 21.25" H (54 cm) on included custom stand.

The image of the Good Shepherd is the most popular of the symbolic representations of Christ depicted in early Christian art in the Catacombs of Rome. These occurred before it was possible to make Christian imagery explicit. Christ is generally shown as a young man carrying a lamb round his neck as we see in this example, and this imagery was adopted from the much older pagan Hermes - god's messenger - or kriophoros - a ram bearer figure used for the sacred sacrifice of rams - and later evolved into the Good Shepherd who watches over his flock. For a wonderful example of this, please see the Late Roman version of the Kriophoros of Kalamis (also Calamis) in the Museo Barracco, Rome.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#161506

Fragment of a larger piece. Man is missing left arm. Repair to man's elbow with break lines visible. Possible repair and restoration to ram's horns. Losses to ram's face and man's upper right arm and nose. Some light softening of detail and minor nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent.