116 - A ROMAN WHITE MARBLE FRAGMENT OF A MALE HEAD, PROBABLY SERAPIS, CIRCA 2ND-3RD CENTURY AD

A ROMAN WHITE MARBLE FRAGMENT OF A MALE HEAD, PROBABLY SERAPIS, CIRCA 2ND-3RD CENTURY AD Expert’s note Distinguished by exceptional sculptural quality, this fragment combines powerful, idealized features with remarkably sensitive naturalism. The subtle modeling around the surviving eye and cheek conveys the softness of living flesh, while the flowing locks of the beard lend depth and movement to the composition. The marble’s attractive warm ivory tone further enhances its sculptural presence. Although the subject cannot be securely identified, the mature features and abundant beard recall representations of gods such as Jupiter and especially Serapis, as well as heroic figures including Odysseus. See a related Roman marble head of Zeus, dated to the 2nd century AD, in the Uffizi Galleries, Florence, inventory number 1914 n. 73. Note the related idealized mature features and treatment of the beard. The museum relates the sculpture to a type employed for representations of Jupiter, Neptune, and Serapis. Superbly carved with the powerful features of a mature bearded male, the surviving almond-shaped eye framed by carefully delineated lids beneath a prominent brow. The strongly modeled nose rises above full, gently parted lips, framed by a sweeping mustache and luxuriant beard with wavy locks terminating in curling points. Provenance: From a private collection in Berlin, Germany. Condition: Good condition with old wear, signs of weathering and erosion, obvious losses, old fills, small chips. The marble with a rich, naturally grown, warm patina. The surface possibly with areas of later sculptural reworking. Weight: 2.8 kg Dimensions: Height 22.1 cm Literature comparison: Compare a closely related marble fragment of a male head, dated to the 2nd century AD, in the Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco, Rome. Auction result comparison: Type: Closely related Auction: Bonhams London, 1 May 2013, lot 98 Price: GBP 8,125 or approx. EUR 13,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Description: A Roman marble portrait head fragment, circa late 2nd-early 3rd century AD Expert remark: Compare the related modeling and manner of carving. Note the smaller size (19.5 cm) and lesser state of preservation. Auction Result Comparison: Type: Closely related Auction: Christie’s New York, 6 June 2013, lot 607 Price: USD 50,000 or approx. EUR 62,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Description: A Greek marble head of Serapis, Ptolemaic Period, circa 2nd–1st century BC, 22.2 cm high Expert remark: Compare the closely related marble head of Serapis, dating to the Ptolemaic period and displaying the characteristic mature, bearded physiognomy of the god.