Originally listed at $2,500...

Roman, later Imperial period, ca. 3rd to 5th century CE. A splendid and quite sizable marble column capital of the Corinthian order, drilled with lush foliage of overlapping acanthus leaves, adding an air of delicacy to this hefty piece of architecture. Dating back to 500 BCE in Grecian art, acanthus leaf decoration has long been associated with the notions of rebirth, immortality, and resurrection. A stunning example of Roman architecture, replete with artistic virtuosity and Classical iconographical tradition! Size: 17.2" Diameter x 19.3" H (43.7 cm x 49 cm)

Book IV of Vitruvius's "De Architectura" tells how sculptor Callimachus was inspired to create the Corinthian capital: A nursemaid of a recently deceased girl had placed a woven basket filled with her favorite things near her grave where acanthi grew. She placed a tile on top of the basket to prevent it blowing over, over time acanthus shoots started sprouting and eventually gracefully bent back through the sides, stopped by the tile. The sight of this elegant form inspired the passing Callimachus to ?invent? the now famous capital for the pillars at Corinth. By the 6th century CE, acanthus leaf motif had become traditional in the eastern Mediterranean.

The drilled motifs are the clue to the age of this piece. From the 3rd century CE onward, Roman sculptors commonly began to use running drills for decorative effects. Holding a wooden support in one hand to guide the drill bit, the sculptor would drill into the surface at a 30 to 45 degree angle, repeatedly lifting and moving the drill to create a series of holes at a shallow angle to the surface of the stone, creating the appearance of a channel, as you can see here with the wavy effect used to create the impression of folded leaves. This is not only a beautiful piece, but also demonstrates the skill and tools of Roman artists.

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

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#175629

Professionally repaired with restoration. Some chipping and losses to areas, as well as expected surface wear commensurate with age, as shown. Nice remaining detail and rich earthen deposits throughout.