Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. A hammered-bronze situla with a flared applied base. The bell-shaped body has a rolled bottom, smooth walls, a deep interior cavity, a stepped inward rim, and two dramatic applied terminals. Each terminal holds two ends of the twin parabolic bail handles which can easily move within their housing and when at rest nestle against the flat rim of the vessel. The terminals are abstractly zoomorphic, suggesting the long snout or beak of an animal, with coiled flourishes at their bases. The patina on this piece is absolutely gorgeous, a deep blue-green that streaks across the body, especially the upper body. Size: 10.6" W x 9.8" H (26.9 cm x 24.9 cm) The situla form was originally made for cooling and serving wine at banquets; others were used to hold ashes, or were buried with offerings in tombs. This decorative example was most likely made specifically for mourning the dead. Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #135510