Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A cast bronze chariot component with an interesting form. The shape is a rounded isosceles triangle form, with thick, openwork sides with inset round discs. At the top of the most acute angle is a pair of lion-headed finials, with the lions facing outward from each other. Each lion has a stylized face, with radiating bands forming manes that flow back from their strong snouts and fiercly opened mouths. Roman chariots were not used for warfare, but instead in circuses and in triumphal processions. As a result, elaborate finials like these became de rigeur, lending a unique look to each chariot. Size: 5" W x 5.7" H (12.7 cm x 14.5 cm)

Provenance: private Davis collection, Houston, Texas, USA; ex-Gerhard Hirsch Nachfolger Auction 277-278, Munich, Germany, lot 894

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#132974

Nicely intact, with excellent detail remaining on the lion heads. Pretty mottled pale and dark green patina on surface.