Roman bull head applique

Roman bull head applique
ITEM: Bull head applique
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 41 mm diameter
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Dutch private collection, acquired between 1970 - 1980

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Roman bull head applique is a distinctive decorative element commonly found in Roman art and architecture, particularly in the context of applied ornamentation. Made from materials such as bronze, silver, or terracotta, these appliques were used to embellish a variety of objects, including furniture, jewelry, weapons, and even larger architectural features like doors or chariots. The bull, a symbol of strength, virility, and fertility, was a common motif in Roman iconography, often associated with agricultural prosperity and the Roman god Jupiter. The depiction of the bull in these appliques may have served both aesthetic and symbolic functions, representing the power and wealth of the owner or the protective qualities of the bull in Roman beliefs.

The design of the bull head appliques typically emphasized the animal’s strong and imposing features, with detailed representations of the horns, eyes, and muzzle. In some cases, the appliques were highly stylized, while in others, they were more naturalistic, showcasing the skill of Roman artisans in capturing the essence of the animal. These decorative pieces were not merely ornamental; they often carried deeper meanings and were intended to evoke the qualities associated with the bull. For example, in the context of military or political leadership, a bull head applique might symbolize courage, leadership, or the strength of the Roman military, all qualities that were highly valued in Roman society. The bull, as a symbol of Jupiter’s power, also had a religious and protective aspect, and the presence of bull head appliques could be interpreted as a form of divine endorsement or protection.

Roman bull head appliques have been discovered in a wide range of archaeological contexts, including residential homes, public buildings, and military sites, as well as in burial contexts. In some cases, they were used as personal adornments, attached to jewelry or clothing to signify status or religious affiliation.

Measurement:

4.1 x 4.1 cm