954 - Bronze jug with a relief-decorated handle, Roman, 2nd century A.D.

Bronze jug with a relief-decorated handle, Roman, 2nd century A.D. Flat bottom with spiral grooves and a center hole on the underside. The body is conical at the bottom and domed above, with a gentle transition that tapers toward the shoulder. Above this, a distinct break following a groove leads to the spool-shaped neck. The neck is topped by a broad, horizontal rim, with an acute-angled edge on the outside and a slightly overhanging metal flange on the inside. On the rim and the upper section of the body is a separately cast, ribbon-shaped handle pulled upward and outward, which is attached to the vessel by soldering; on the upper part of the underside, two forked prongs run along the rear rim; on the lower part of the underside, a wide, figuratively decorated attachment. The handle is shaped like a theater mask in bas-relief, with a palmette beneath the chin and a Phrygian cap over the shoulder-length hair. Above it, on the handle in relief, are a syrinx and another theater mask. At the top center of the handle is a notched band, and above the rim is a fully sculpted head; between them is an incised palmette. The surface of the vessel is predominantly covered with a mottled, reddish-brown cuprite layer; the handle has a dark green patina. Minor oxidation deposits and tiny areas of corrosion; otherwise intact. A charming Roman bronze vessel with no damage or missing parts. Height 12.5 cm. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Provenance: Acquired on the German art market in the summer of 2026. Previously in a Bavarian private collection. Acquired for the collection in 2002 from Galerie Athena, Munich. Condition: II