Ca. 100-200 AD.
A cast bronze phalera formed as a lion's mask. The animal's head with a prominent nose and large eyes, an open mouth, and a detailed mane framing the face. Objects formed of bronze were ubiquitous in the Roman world, being used by the Roman military for both practical and decorative purposes. The phalera is the sculptured disk (typically formed of bronze) on the breastplate, which was worn by Roman soldiers as a reward for outstanding service, or as a representation of military rank.
Size: L:60mm / W:58mm ; 90g
Provenance: Private London collection; formerly acquired in the US in the 1990s.