Roman, Holy Land / Phoenicia, ca. 2nd to 4th century CE. A stunning rectangular segment from the long side of a lead sarcophagus executed in relief with a top border comprised of several laurel leaves with berries arranged in a straight line, flanked above and below by a braided rope motif and three lower scenes segregated by spiraled, fluted Corinthian columns. The left and center lower sections are of similar design, featuring a female sphinx seated at the center with her head turned facing outward surrounded by four ornaments of grapes and their leaves on twisting vines with a group of trifoliate laurel leaves in each corner. These two beautiful scenes are accompanied by a third program of different decor, which displays the same grape and vine motifs, but this time with a Gorgoneion (head of a gorgon) in the center and four realistically depicted dolphins in each corner. Both the sphynx and Gorgoneion have apotropaic functions as guardians of tombs, the latter also used frequently in ancient homes to avert evil from entering. The skillfully carved dolphin and grapes are associated with the worship of Bacchus (Greek Dionysus). A very large Roman sarcophagus panel, replete with expert technique, fine artistry, and meaningful symbolic iconography, most likely created for the sarcophagus of a Roman citizen. Size: 28.25" L x 13.625" W (71.8 cm x 34.6 cm)

Prior to the 2nd century, Romans cremated their dead; around that time, they became inspired by the Greek and Etruscan practice of using sarcophagi, and they began to make coffins. This trend spread rapidly throughout the Roman Empire and between social stratums. While those of nobility would commission marble sarcophagi, the middle class would commission lead sarcophagi, such as this one. Lead sarcophagi were only made in Phoenicia, or the Eastern part of the empire, but were shipped west due to popularity. This example is replete with symbolism. The leaves refer to actual garlands and flowers used to decorate tombs and altars. The dolphins, meanwhile, remind us of a powerful and popular motif in Roman artwork. The Romans were largely a maritime empire, and the iconography of the sea included dolphins. Romans believed these animals carried souls to the Fortunate Isles, perhaps because they could pass through the air-breathing terrestrial world and into the watery depths that claimed so many Roman sailors' lives. This symbol must have had personal significance for the deceased, who often ordered coffins to be made long before they died.

Two similar lead sarcophagi can be found at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (accession #: 31.116) and the Walters Art Museum (accession #: 55.85). The Met's sarcophagus differs in that its sphinxes face each other, rather than facing in the same direction,

Provenance: ex-Phoenicia Holyland Antiquities, New York, New York, USA; ex-private East Coast, USA collection, acquired in the late 1980's

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#159192

Fragment of a larger program. Missing area at left and central base, as well as tearing on right side. Expected fading to relief with nicks, chips, and scratches commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with rich patina and lovely earthen deposits throughout.