Rare Roman Bronze Fish

$821.41

This hollow-cast bronze figure of a fish from ancient Rome is unusual and rare. The main features are clearly depicted, showing the dorsal, pectoral, and pelvic fins, as well as the eyes in relief, and the mouth gaping open.

The item is supplied with a purpose-made display stand.

Date: Circa 1st - 3rd Century AD
Provenance: From an old private Cambridge collection.
Condition: except for a very small hole on one side, a few light accretions.

SOLD

SKU: AS-3601 Category: Tags: , ,

We can only surmise the original purpose of this strange figurine, the shape of which is rarely encountered. It is quite likely, however, that it served as an adornment to a larger food vessel or dish. In Ancient Rome the fish could have many meanings and uses. In the Defense of Apuleius the writer has to defend himself against charges of magic and witchcraft due to the fact a certain type of fish was found in his house! Fish were also very important to the mediterranean diet as Fish Sauce was a key flavouring in the Ancient World.

In addition, the symbol of the fish was associated with the Greek god, Orpheus, who was described as a “fisher of men”. The descent of Orpheus into the underworld to save the soul of his lover, Eurydice, also became a metaphor for Christ the Saviour.

For more information about the meanings of animals in Roman art, see our relevant blog post: Animal Symbolism in Roman Art.

 

 

Weight 331 g
Dimensions L 16.7 cm
Culture

Metal

Region

You may also like…