Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st century BCE to 2nd century CE. Before the invention of glass blowing in the first century CE, Roman manufacturers of household goods used a variety of other materials to form vessels for everyday use. This ancient bronze pouring vessel, for example, is a handsome form comprised of a substantive globular body rising to a neck that gradually narrows until it resolves in a flared rim - with a high handle presenting a Gorgon visage at its base. Scholars believe that vessels like this were used to store water for domestic religious rituals and washing hands at banquets. Slaves would have poured water over the hands of banquet guests, catching the water in a patera held below. This piece most likely came from a luxurious home, as similar examples decorated with various mythological figures, animal heads and feet, theater masks, and floral motifs have been discovered in the vicinities of Roman villas. Size: 7.875" in diameter x 9.5" H (20 cm x 24.1 cm)

Known for their bold gazes that could turn one to stone, Gorgons were favored as architectural ornaments because it was believed that they would protect those within. One of the most famous images of a Gorgon is featured upon the pediment of the temple at Corfu, the oldest known pediment in Greece. Departing from an architectural context, perhaps the Gorgon on this vessel was meant to safeguard the precious liquid contained within.

See a similar Roman bronze vessel at the Getty Museum (object number 72.AC.133) that was found at the villa Boscoreale or its vicinity.

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

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#131731

Repaired from about 20 pieces with one major area of restoration and other areas of restoration over the break lines - amounting to about 15% to 20% new material. Overall, an attractive form with wonderful Gorgon handle.