Greek Bronze Handle with Lion-Skin Head
Circa 5th-4th century B.C. Formed as the skinned head and forepaws of a lion, together with two lateral handles with fastening holes surmounted by a pearled edge. Cf. Furtwängler, A., Olympia. Die Ergebnisse der von dem Deutschen Reich veranstalteten Ausgrabung Band 4. 2 Bände (Textband, Tafelband), Asher, Berlin, 1890, pl.TLV, nos.923-924, for similar handles.159 grams, 80 mm (3 1/8 in.). Acquired on the UK art market 2000s. The handle appears to be a device once attached to a wine vessel or pan-like vessels. The vessel handles were usually formed as divinities or animals linked with gods (ie. lions for Herakles). The lion's skin is hanging down like in the images representing Herakles resting and drinking after his labours.