ETRUSCAN TERRACOTTA ACROTERION FRAGMENT OF THE FACE OF HERCLE

Ca. 5th-2nd century BC
A terracotta acroterion fragment of the face of Hercle. The fragment depicts the left side of the lower face section of the mythical hero with his strong jawline and prominent chin clearly visible. The fragment is highly detailed, with the contours of the face and the texture of the skin carefully rendered. Hercle, also known as Hercules in Greek mythology, was a popular figure in Etruscan religion and art. He was a heroic figure known for his strength and courage, and was often depicted in Etruscan art as a symbol of power and masculinity. Hercle was associated with the god Tinia, and was often depicted wearing a lion skin and carrying a club. An acroterion is a decorative element that is typically found at the top of a pediment or gable in classical architecture. These elements were often sculpted in the round and depicted figures from mythology or religion. Acroteria were common in Etruscan architecture, and were often made of terracotta or stone.
Size: L:115mm / W:120mm ; 345g
Provenance: United States (Georgia) - Agora Auctions, Auction 60, 9 August 2016, lot 419 (passed lot); formerly private collection from Jacksonville, Florida; the consignor was an Italian-born military private investigator in the US Air Force who served in primarily in Italy and formed an antiquities collection during the early part of his career (Tom Mullally, Vice President of Agora Auctions, pers. comms.)
Estimate: GBP 450 - 900