952 - Bronze statuette of a panther, Roman, 2nd–3rd century A.D.

Bronze statuette of a panther, Roman, 2nd–3rd century A.D. An animal figure that was certainly part of a group of figures, including Dionysus and possibly a Silenus, modeled after marble groups such as those from Piacenza (Emilia-Romagna) or the Villa of Pozzuoli near Naples. The body is cast hollow but has thick walls. On the inner left side of the hindquarters is a bracket that may have been used to secure the panther to a base. The anatomical details of the animal figure are lovingly rendered: the eyes, ears, nose, and open mouth are well-proportioned and lifelike, as are the paws and limbs. The tail curves around the right flank of the hindquarters. The seated panther stretches its neck and head upward, its slightly turned head gazing toward the missing Dionysus. The left paw is raised in a playful or begging gesture. The pattern of the fur is depicted by punched circular dots. Beautiful dark green patina, partially with reddish oxidation spots or deposits. Height 7.7 cm. Length 6 cm. A charming animal sculpture from a bronze group that exemplifies the refinement of great art crafted for the domestic use of an upper-class Roman household. Acquired by the current owner from Hermann Historica in November 2024 at Auction 102, Lot 4096. Previously in the Rhineland private collection of J.K. (bequeathed). Acquired in 2014 from the Cologne coin cabinet Tyll Kroha (Auction 102, Lot 1410). Invoice and a copy of the page from the auction catalog with an illustration are available. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Provenance: Acquired by the current owner from Hermann Historica in November 2024 at Auction 102, Lot 4096. Previously from the private collection of J.K. in the Rhineland (bequeathed). Acquired in 2014 from the Cologne Coin Cabinet Tyll Kroha (Auction 102, Lot 1410). Invoice and a copy of the page from the auction catalog featuring the illustration are available. Condition: II