Roman, early Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. A large, cast bronze vessel, round, with its body impressed to form a shell- or petal-pattern around the interior. The vessel stands on a diminutive disc foot and has a curved handle attached with two hooks to the dorsal side. A slightly rolled lip forms a rim around the top of the vessel, which is decorated with repousse dots. Twin ornate, curved handles are attached via applied bronze hooks to the lower sides of the vessel (see the condition report for more on these). Size: 14.1" W x 2.75" H (35.8 cm x 7 cm)

Vessels of this style from the Roman period, particularly those with shell imagery, are most well known from Pompeii and other towns in the vicinity of Mt. Vesuvius, although a few examples have been found in Gaul and beyond Roman territory in Germany. They are frequently found in bronze and silver, although there are a few known glass examples too. Their purpose is not well known - they may have been used to bake bread, or to serve food. Alternately, they may have been used for drawing water for bathing or holding toiletries - the shell motif is common on fountains and other water basins inside domestic spaces. Representations of Venus often show her holding a basin in the shape of a shell; there are also bronze statuettes of Cupid holding out a shell vessel to Venus.

Provenance: private Orange County, California, USA collection acquired before 2000

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#130991

The handles and their appliques have been repaired and reattached some time in the past, with one side reattached upside down. Slight bending to form and one tiny area of corrosion through the body of the vessel. Mottled, bright green patina over most of surface.