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Lion's head from a sarcophagus
Roman
Imperial Period
about A.D. 200
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Length 17.5 cm (6 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Cornelius C. Vermeule, Jr.
Accession Number63.631
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 674; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 127 (additional published references).
DescriptionThere are remains of three iron pins for attachment in the mane. The pupils of the eyes have not been hollowed out. From the same sarcophagus as 61.1235. The other two handles from this set were in the Art Market in Philadelphia before 1961. Stains from iron rust. Green patina.
ProvenanceAccording to C. Vermeule, Classical Journal 58, October 1962, this is one of a group of four handles found a number of years ago in Syria (a second handle from the group is MFA 61.1235); by date unknown: with Hesperia Art, 2219 St. James Place, Philadelphia 3, Pa.; date unknown: purchased from Hesperia Art by Mrs. Cornelius C. Vermeule, Jr.; gift of Mrs. Cornelius C. Vermeule, Jr. to MFA, May 8, 1963