**Originally Listed At $900**

Roman, early Imperial Period, ca. 1st century CE. A beautiful and delicate bronze olpe with a tall, curved handle that flows sinuously down to the mid-body and ends in a flat bar applied to the side of the vessel. The rim flares outward, with a gently incised pattern around its edge and four rivets that hold the top of the handle in place. The body has a carinated shoulder before flowing smoothing to a slight disc foot. A rough area on the bronze just under the shoulder shows there the piece once had an applique - perhaps a mask or mythological face. This is an olpe, characterized by its tall, strap-like handle and smooth profile. The form was originally made to pour wine - but this one, like many others, was likely made to provision a tomb inside a Roman cemetery. Size: 5.6" W x 7.5" H (14.2 cm x 19 cm)

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#134719

Handle has been repaired where it meets the body and at the neck. Applique is missing from one side and has left a small irregularity in the bronze surface. Tiny areas of corrosion on the base. Possible remains of gilding under neck. Beautiful deep green patina and excellent preservation of form.