Large carved marble head of a bull originally from a full figure, perhaps a reference to the sacred bull Apis. Realistically rendered with a furry coat, large almond-shaped eyes, a well-defined muzzle with delineated nostrils and ears. Ancient loss to both horns and scattered minor ancient surface losses, overall excellent ancient surface patina. Custom bronze base. A beautifully carved example.
MARBLE HEAD OF A BULL
- Italy
- Roman Art, ca. 1st century B.C. - 2nd century A.D.
- Marble
- H. 26 cm
- Provenance :
• Mr. A.T. Ganasoulis of Patra, Greece
• Ex. A. Nasiou, acquired in Greece, 1906
• Ex-private European collection, 1930s
• Ex-private Texas collection
• Private NYC collection
Large carved marble head of a bull originally from a full figure, perhaps a reference to the sacred bull Apis. Realistically rendered with a furry coat, large almond-shaped eyes, a well-defined muzzle with delineated nostrils and ears. Ancient loss to both horns and scattered minor ancient surface losses, overall excellent ancient surface patina. Custom bronze base. A beautifully carved example.
Photo credit : Studio Asselberghs – Frédéric Dehaen
