ITEM: Lion applique
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 37 mm x 34 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Austrian private collection, acquired before 1990s

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Roman lion appliqués in bronze were ornamental decorations commonly used in various contexts during the Roman Empire. These appliqués, typically crafted from bronze or other metals, depicted stylized representations of lions and were often attached to a variety of objects, including furniture, architectural elements, military equipment, and personal adornments. The lion held symbolic significance in Roman culture, representing strength, power, and courage, and its image was frequently employed to convey these attributes in both secular and religious contexts.

One of the most notable uses of Roman lion appliqués was in furniture decoration. Bronze lion appliqués adorned items such as chests, tables, chairs, and thrones, adding a touch of elegance and prestige to household furnishings. These appliqués were often intricately detailed, with finely rendered features and muscular forms, showcasing the skill and artistry of Roman metalworkers. Lion appliqués on furniture not only served a decorative purpose but also conveyed social status and wealth, as owning such elaborately adorned pieces was a sign of affluence and refinement.

In addition to furniture decoration, Roman lion appliqués were also utilized in architectural ornamentation. They adorned buildings, temples, and public structures, adding embellishments to facades, friezes, and doorways. These appliqués contributed to the grandeur and magnificence of Roman architecture, reflecting the empire's penchant for opulence and ostentation. Furthermore, the presence of lion motifs in architectural contexts may have held symbolic connotations related to protection, guardianship, and the imperial authority of Rome.