Classical World, Etruria, ca. 6th to 4th century BCE. A cast bronze male figure, standing with his arms outstretched, his hands shown in a grip, perhaps indicating that he was a charioteer holding onto reins. He wears a long garment that covers his body - all the way to his feet - and a cap-like helmet. His visage is comprised of lunate eyes, arched brows, an aquiline nose, and pursed lips. A wonderful piece referencing Etruscan chariot racing as depicted on fresco wall paintings in the Tomb of Tarquinia, Italy as well as the Tomb of Bigas. Since the Romans destroyed the Etruscan civilization, artifacts like this example along with tomb paintings serve as an invaluable glimpse into the lost world of the Etruscans. Size: 2.375" H (6 cm); 2.875" H (7.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Etruscan chariot racing was exceedingly dangerous, as the courses had bumpy hills, very steep slopes, and treacherous curves. Because of this, Etruscan charioteers were sometimes strapped to their chariots with leather belts. What's more, fatalities were expected and abundant, and this activity was banned from the Greek Olympics.

Etruria - modern day Tuscany, Lazio, and Umbria - was rich in metals, including copper, and the Etruscans drew upon their native resources to become master bronze smiths. Votive figures like this one were traded far and wide according to Pliny the Elder. Titus Livius records that when the consul Marcus Fluvius Flaccus conquered the Etruscan city of Volsinii, they took a line of wagons, including two thousand bronze statues, to Rome, where they were melted down to make coinage to finance the war against Carthage.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#135321

Intact with rich brown and green patina. Gripping hands probably once held objects - perhaps reins.